Herbal Medicine 101
Defining the materials and practice
What are herbs? Herbs are defined as plants that are used for medicinal purpose.
Herbalism is therefore the study and practice of using plants as medicine. This form of treatment has been used for centuries and in modern day we have the benefit of making them more effective by finding out why.
Herbal medicine has been under objective scientific analysis for decades. Herbs undergo the same scrutiny as pharmaceuticals through research and practice. Results from studies that support or oppose the hypothesis are then published and available for anyone to review. I often get asked why the efficacy of a herb for a particular condition or action is hidden from the public.
Answer is – It isn’t.
This information is often just a google away but some may be hidden behind a paywall. These sites are visited by health practitioners that require access to these records for personal or professional research. The dissemination of information comes down to researchers, practitioners and the media. Official channels of reporting are via the news, newspapers and publications – the most watched and read ways. These days, wellness is also preached by the masses on social media and is not always accurate. It’s a bit like a game of Chinese whispers where the facts get skewed the further it goes down the chain. I’ve read some crazy reporting on “new evidence found in study”, gone and read the study and wonder how they came to the conclusion they did. Editorializing at its finest.
I also get asked why more people don’t know about “this” i.e. the actions of a herb.
Answer is – They should. But not everyone has seen or been exposed to herbalism in their lifetime nor seen a herbalist.
Some plants contain medicinal constituents that have been recreated for the pharmaceutical world. Once of the benefits herbs have over these manufactured versions comes down to synergy.
Synergistic Science
Synergy is what we have in the presence of multiple active constituents and phytochemicals working together to create greater medicinal activity. For example, St Mary’s Thistle contains a group of polyphenols that include: silandrin, silybin, silychristin, silydianin, silymarin, and silymonin. These flavonoids have a collective hepatoprotective and antioxidant capability and individually possess some of their own medicinal actions. Therefore, this herb would be suitable for someone for example with a sluggish liver but also for someone living with high cholesterol. Another popular herb Echinacea is likely to be known for use during a cold or flu, but this is because its constituents are immune modulating, anti-inflammatory and lymphatic, all three actions play a part in eradicating illness. There are hundreds of examples that illustrate the wonders of synergy. Herbs really are the effective multitaskers of the plant world.
Herbal Tinctures vs Tablets
The structure of a herbal tablet or capsule is so that it maintains medicinal integrity and structure while being stored in a bottle. They are often effective, easy to take, easy to store versions of herbs. This form of herb is chosen by a majority of consumers, making herbal medicine an on-the-go possibility.
Liquid herbs are dry herb plus ethanol creating a potent extract. Some are made into glycetracts, the non-alcoholic version made with glycerine. Compared to their tablet counterparts, tinctures do not require the same excipients (non-active extra ingredients). Liquids also absorb faster and more effectively. A downside is that aren't as convenient as popping a pill which can lead to poor adherence to treatment. Their flavour can also differ greatly, providing an array of different tastes. A potent and bitter Echinacea can be pacified by the sweet fruit of Elderberry. Pleasant tasting herbs can be mixed in to make a tincture more palatable.
The most favourable aspect of tinctures is that they can be tailored to your needs and your mix can address more than one health concern at a time (refer back to the St Mary's Thistle example).
They are formulated around your needs based on your health history, current health status, family history and personal preferences (such as taste).
They must be dispensed with care as they can interfere with certain conditions and medications. I recommend that if you are unsure, always get advice from a professional. This can save you time, money and unnecessary complications.
Me hunting wild Echinacea in Ireland 2023
For a herbal consultation, please get in contact via my website or at the email address below. I have a herbal dispensary at both of my practicing locations in Brisbane.
Jo Knight
Naturopath, Herbalist, Nutritionist, Researcher & Educational writer.
Get in touch for a free 15-minute discovery call today!
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