MyMaleesha The Women Magazine for A Smart Life Style.

Herbal Remedies and It’s Benefits

 The medicinal use of herbs is probably as old as mankind itself. Almost every culture has its own version of herbal medicine, and in some countries these natural remedies are still used to treat many health problems. According to the World Health Organization, herbalism is three to four times more commonly practiced through­out the world than conventional medicine.

Herbal remedies have a therapeutic action that is gentle and restora­tive. In addition to easing specific symptoms, they enhance the body’s own natural healing capacity and so restore overall health and vitality.

The remedies are made from plants whose medicinal prop­erties can be traced to the presence of various pharmacological­ly active ingredients. These constituents work in harmony to have the desired influence on the body. Many active ingredi­ents have been ‘copied’ by drug companies to make orthodox medicines. A classic example is Willow Bark, a traditional reme­dy for headache and rheumatic pains. Its active principle is salicin, a chemical from which aspirin is derived.

There are countless other examples, and scientific research continues into the chemical constituents of plants in order to isolate and syn­thesize substances with unique medicinal properties. Whereas antibiotics are ineffective against viruses, certain herbs such as Echinacea and Garlic appear to help the body resist and overcome viral infections.

Only the gentlest, most tried-and-tested herbal remedies are rec­ommended for giving to babies and children at home. Because herbal remedies are made from the whole plant as found in nature, they are generally considered more gentle and less likely to cause adverse side-effects than chemically-synthesized medicines. And herbalists claim that the healing properties reside in the unique com­bination of chemical components present in the pure herb rather than in anyone ingredient.

Many herbal remedies are often rich in particular vitamins and minerals. Rosehips, for instance, are an excellent source of vitamin C and bioflavonoids, while Dandelion root is rich in iron and potassium.

One of the safest ways to reap the benefits of herbs is to use them in cooking and salads. Familiar culinary herbs such as Thyme, Sage and Rosemary are strongly antiseptic.

Infusions of herbs make good natural medicines for babies and children. They can be sipped or given by the teaspoon, perhaps sweetened with a little honey to make them more enticing. All infu­sion of Chamomile or Lemon Balm before bedtime will help t6 ensure a good night’s sleep. Raspberry leaves are excellent for sooth­ing small children and infants; they can be used for diarrhea, stom­ach upsets and for sore mouths.

Herbs are best when fresh. Some of the most useful herbs, such as Basil, Parsley and Thyme, can be grown in window boxes so they are always to hand. Freeze-dried organically grown herbs are anoth­er good option.

If something more sophisticated than a herb tea is required, tinc­tures and tablets are available from health-food stores. For persistent or recurring health problems it is essential to consult a qualified herbal practitioner.