Are herbs “dilute forms of drugs” – and therefore dangerous? Or are they “natural” – and therefore safe? If you sell herbs, you probably hear these questions often. What is the “right” answer? It depends on the herb! These thoughts on herbs will help you explain to your customers (and yourself) how safe – or dangerous – any herb might be.

To prevent problems when selling or using herbs:

Be certain you have the correct plant. Use simples. Understand that different preparations of the same herb can work differently. Use nourishing, tonifying, stimulating, and potentially poisonous herbs wisely.
BE CERTAIN YOU HAVE THE CORRECT PLANT

One of the easiest ways to get into trouble with an herb is to use the “wrong” one. How could that happen? Common names for herbs overlap, causing confusion as to the proper identity. Herbs that are labeled correctly may contain extraneous material from another, more dangerous, herb. Herbs may be picked at the wrong stage of growth or handled incorrectly after harvesting, causing them to develop detrimental qualities.

Protect yourself and your customers with these simple steps:

Buy herbs only from reputable suppliers. Only buy herbs that are labeled with their botanical name. Botanical names are specific, but the same common names can refer to several different plants. “Marigold” can be Calendula officinalis, a medicinal herb, or Tagetes, an annual used as a bedding plant. If you grow the herbs you sell, be meticulous about keeping different plants separate when you harvest and dry them, and obsessive about labeling.
USE SIMPLES

A simple is one herb. For optimum safety, I prepare, buy, sell, teach about and use herbal simples, that is: preparations containing only one herb. (Occasionally I will add some mint to flavor a remedy.)

The more herbs there are in a formula, the more likelihood there is of unwanted side-effects. Understandably, the public seeks combinations, hoping to get more for less. And many mistakenly believe that herbs must be used together to be effective (probably because potentially poisonous herbs are often combined with protective herbs to mitigate the damage they cause). But combining herbs with the same properties, such as goldenseal and echinacea, is counter-productive and more likely to cause trouble than a simple. A simple tincture of echinacea is more effective than any combination and much safer.

Different people have different reactions to substances, whether drugs, foods, or herbs. When herbs are mixed together in a formula and someone taking it has distressing side effects, there is no way to determine which herb is the cause. With simples, it’s easy to tell which herb is doing what. If there’s an adverse reaction, other herbs with similar properties can be tried. Limiting the number of herbs used in any one day (to no more than four) offers added protection.

Side effects from herbs are less common than side effects from drugs and usually less severe. If an herb disturbs the digestion, it may be that the body is learning to process it. Give it a few more tries before giving up. Stop taking any herb that causes nausea, dizziness, sharp stomach pains, diarrhea, headache, or blurred vision. (These effects will generally occur quite quickly.) Slippery elm is an excellent antidote to any type of poison.

If you are allergic to any foods or medicines, it is especially important to consult resources that list the side effects of herbs before you use them.

UNDERSTAND THAT DIFFERENT PREPARATIONS OF THE SAME HERB CAN WORK DIFFERENTLY

The safety of any herbal remedy is dependent on the way it is prepared and used.

Tinctures and extracts contain the alkaloids, or poisonous, parts of plants and need to be used with care and wisdom. Tinctures are as safe as the herb involved (see cautions below for tonifying, stimulating, sedating, or potentially poisonous herbs). Best used/sold as simples, not combinations, especially when strong herbs are being used. Dried herbs made into teas or infusions contain the nourishing aspects of the plants and are usually quite safe, especially when nourishing or tonifying herbs are used. Dried herbs in capsules are generally the least effective way to use herbs. They are poorly digested, poorly utilized, often stale or ineffective, and quite expensive. Infused herbal oils are available as is, or thickened into ointments. They are much safer than essential oils, which are highly concentrated and can be lethal if taken internally. Herbal vinegars are not only decorative but mineral-rich as well. A good medium for nourishing and tonifying herbs; not as strong as tinctures for stimulants/sedatives. Herbal glycerins are available for those who prefer to avoid alcohol but are usually weaker in action than tinctures.
USE NOURISHING, TONIFYING, STIMULATING, & POTENTIALLY POISONOUS HERBS WISELY

Herbs comprise a group of several thousand plants with widely varying actions. Some are nourishers, some tonifiers, some stimulants and sedatives, and some are potential poisons. To use them wisely and well, we need to understand each category, its uses, best manner of preparation, and usual dosage range.

Nourishing herbs are the safest of all herbs; side effects are rare. Nourishing herbs are taken in any quantity for any length of time. They are used as foods, just like spinach and kale. Nourishing herbs provide high levels of proteins, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, carotenes, and essential fatty acids.

Examples of nourishing herbs are: alfalfa, amaranth, astragalus, calendula flowers, chickweed, comfrey leaves, dandelion, fenugreek, flax seeds, honeysuckle flowers, lamb’s quarter, marshmallow, nettles, oatstraw, plantain (leaves/seeds), purslane, red clover blossoms, seaweed, Siberian ginseng, slippery elm, violet leaves, and wild mushrooms.

Tonifying herbs act slowly in the body and have a cumulative, rather than immediate, effect. They build the functional ability of an organ (like the liver) or a system (like the immune system). Tonifying herbs are most beneficial when they are used in small quantities for extended periods of time. The more bitter the tonic tastes, the less you need to take. Bland tonics may be used in quantity, like nourishing herbs.

Side effects occasionally occur with tonics, but are usually quite short-term. Many older herbalists mistakenly equated stimulating herbs with tonifying herbs, leading to widespread misuse of many herbs, and severe side effects.

Examples of tonifying herbs are: barberry bark, burdock root/seeds, chaste tree, crone(mug)wort, dandelion root, echinacea, elecampane, fennel, garlic, ginkgo, ginseng, ground ivy, hawthorn berries, horsetail, lady’s mantle, lemon balm, milk thistle seeds, motherwort, mullein, pau d’arco, raspberry leaves, schisandra berries, St. Joan’s wort, turmeric root, usnea, wild yam, and yellow dock.

Sedating and stimulating herbs cause a variety of rapid reactions, some of which may be unwanted. Some parts of the person may be stressed in order to help other parts. Strong sedatives and stimulants, whether herbs or drugs, push us outside our normal ranges of activity and may cause strong side effects. If we rely on them and then try to function without them, we wind up more agitated (or depressed) than before we began. Habitual use of strong sedatives and stimulants – whether opium, rhubarb root, cayenne, or coffee – leads to loss of tone, impairment of functioning, and even physical dependency. The stronger the herb, the more moderate the dose needs to be, and the shorter the duration of its use.

Herbs that tonify and nourish while sedating/stimulating are some of my favorite herbs. I use them freely, as they do not cause dependency. Sedating/stimulating herbs that also tonify or nourish: boneset, catnip, citrus peel, cleavers, ginger, hops, lavender, marjoram, motherwort, oatstraw, passion flower, peppermint, rosemary, sage, skullcap.

Strongly sedating/stimulating herbs include: angelica, black pepper, blessed thistle root, cayenne, cinnamon, cloves, coffee, licorice, opium poppy, osha root, shepherd’s purse, sweet woodruff, turkey rhubarb root, uva ursu leaves, valerian root, wild lettuce sap, willow bark, and wintergreen leaves.

Potentially poisonous herbs are intense, potent medicines that are taken in tiny amounts and only for as long as needed. Side effects are common.

Examples of potentially poisonous herbs are: belladonna, blood-root, celandine, chaparral, foxglove, goldenseal, henbane, iris root, Jimson weed, lobelia, May apple (American mandrake), mistletoe, poke root, poison hemlock, stillingia root, turkey corn root, wild cucumber root.

In addition, consider these thoughts on using herbs safely:

Respect the power of plants to change the body and spirit in dramatic ways. Increase trust in the healing effectiveness of plants by trying remedies for minor or external problems before, or while, working with major and internal problems. Develop ongoing relationships with knowledgeable healers – in person or in books – who are interested in herbal medicine. Honor the uniqueness of every plant, every person, every situation. Remember that each person becomes whole and healed in their own unique way, at their own speed. People, plants, and animals can help in this process. But it is the body/spirit that does the healing. Don’t expect plants to be cure alls.Legal Disclaimer: This content is not intended to replace conventional medical treatment. Any suggestions made and all herbs listed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, condition or symptom. Personal directions and use should be provided by a clinical herbalist or other qualified healthcare practitioner with a specific formula for you. All material contained herein is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Contact a reputable healthcare practitioner if you are in need of medical care. Exercise self-empowerment by seeking a second opinion.

Susun Weed, Copyright @ 2009 wisewoman@herbshealing.com

LEARN HOW TO PREVENT ILLNESS AND HEAL YOURSELF safely and easily the Wise Woman Way. Women’s health forum, FREE women’s forum, weblog, and email group. Topics include menopause, breast health, childbearing, fertility, disease prevention, nutritional advice, and cancer prevention. Visit the Wise Woman Web

During the summer of 2001 I had the wonderful opportunity to be part of an ongoing clinical herbal trial here in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, where I qualified to participate because I happen to have high blood pressure. My blood pressure can range anywhere from 145 points to as high as 175 points at times. When I first came into and began the trial, my blood pressure was taken and read at 165 over 95 plus.

I’ve learned from participating in this clinical trial and doing some further research that specific herbs can help lower your blood pressure in a natural way.

At the start of the trial, I was asked and instructed by the participating naturopathic doctor to take every day, an organic liquid herbal extract that included ten herbs (see list below). I was directed to take 15 drops under my tongue three times a day for the time duration of the trial for 2 months. I was also asked to take note of any changes I might sense or be aware of during the time as well.

The liquid herbal blend tasted absolutely horrible where I could hardly take it… but I persevered and took the required amount that I was asked to take. After a few days, it didn’t seem to taste quite as bad, as I guess I started to get used to it. I had the sense that because it tasted so strong, it had to be maybe doing something and hopefully it was good!

After the two months time period, I was again seen by the naturopathic doctor who tested my blood pressure three times.

I was quite pleasantly surprised to learn that my blood pressure had actually dropped 24 points. I hadn’t done anything differently with my life-style other than take this liquid herbal extract as asked. I had also noticed other benefits that I felt pretty soon after taking the herbal blend. I quickly felt an overall sense of well-being and later noticed that an ongoing problem I’ve had with heart-burn wasn’t as prevalent and had almost disappeared. I was also sleeping better.

I’ve since learned that some of these ten herbs can also help to naturally unclog the plaque in your arteries as well.

I find it exciting to know that these herbs can offer some alternative help to the many evasive drugs that are often prescribed to folks who have no other alternative. I am happy to share an alternative that may help others as they have helped me.

Here is the list of the ten herbs that I was asked to take on the trial:

Please note that many other benefits may be known for some of this list of herbs – I’ve pretty much listed the benefits specifically related to lowering high blood pressure and general cardiovascular heart health.

? Garlic (Allium sativum)

Has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties, drains fluid congestion. Prevents and dissolves clots, lowers blood pressure and reduces cholesterol. Garlic can protect against infectious organisms like viruses, bacteria and fungi and blocks the enzymes that enable organisms to enter the tissue. It increases the enzymes that can detoxify cancer triggers. Garlic works as an anticoagulant to inhibit blood clotting and to lower blood pressure, by widening the blood vessels and encouraging good circulation. It is believed that Garlic may also facilitate less cholesterol being released into the blood. All of these factors make Garlic a good nutrient for prevention of heart disease and other heart-related issues.

? Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha)

Helps estore and stimulate the heart and arterial circulation Regulates and balances the whole cardiovascular system. Hawthorn can help treat heart disease related symptoms. Considered by herbalists to be the world’s best cardiac tonic. Used for beginning heart disease, mild heart-muscle weakness, angina, and arrhythmia. Hawthorn promotes healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels by relaxing blood vessels, increasing metabolism in the heart muscle, and improving blood supply to the heart. Also used for sleeplessness, nervousness, poor digestion, and weight control.

? Coleus (Coleus Forskohlii)

Helps lowers high blood pressure, positive inotropic action on heart, increases force of contraction Ideally suited for treatment of mild congestive heart failure Works synergetically with other herbs, potent inhibitor of human platelet aggregation. Coleus has been traditionally used to treat high blood pressure and other benefits include help in losing weight, improving digestion and nutrient absorption, fighting cancer, and immune system support.

? Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

Is a circulatory stimulant, can help lower blood pressure, is a sedative and nerve tonic. It also regulates blood pressure and rapid heartbeat and tones the heart. Tests show that it treats heart disease effectively by reducing cholesterol levels. It also treats menstrual irregularities and the symptoms of menopause.

? Bilberry (Vaccinium Myrtillus)

Very good for eyes (night vision) inhibits macular degeneration of the eye Inhibits growth of bacterial cells and dilates blood vessels. Bilberry keeps the blood vessels healthy. The compounds contained in the bilberry, notably the anthocyanosides, have been shown to help fortify blood vessel walls, thereby aiding circulation and increasing blood flow.

? Butchers Broom (Ruscus aculeatus)

Helps keep blood from forming clots, reduces vascular permeability, assists circulation. It narrows blood vessels and can relieve the discomfort of circulatory conditions such as chronic venus insufficiency and varicose veins. It also relieves related symptoms such as cramping, itching, numbness and swelling.

? Mistletoe (Viscumalbum)

For arterial hypertension can help lower high blood pressure and has been shown to affect blood pressure central arteries in the brain. It’s good for high blood pressure, cancer and a fast heart rate from feeling nervous. It may also be used to improve the immune system. This system protects your body from infection.

? Kelp (Laminaria digitata)

Used mainly for the iodine and effect it has on the thyroid gland and is a sustainer to the nervous system and the brain. Kelp is also very rich in vitamins, nutrients and minerals that it works wonderfully as an all around every day vitamin.

? Ginger (Zingiber Oficinale)

Helps improves digestion, can help improve liver function, nervine, thins blood and lowers cholesterol Stimulates circulation, especially to extremities. It particularly inhibits cholesterol production in the liver, which makes up to 85% of the cholesterol in circulation in the blood stream. Ginger also decreases the activity of plate-activating factor (PAF), a clotting agent that creates the clot that can result in heart attack of stroke.

? Cayenne Capsicum annuum)

Equalizes the blood flow in the body, enhances the effect of other herbs Stimulates body and organs properly so that they heal, cleanse, and begin to function normally. It helps regulate the heart and blood pressure. It can improve blood circulation and normalize both high and low blood pressure. It apparently increases heart action without increasing blood pressure.

NOTE: This information is summarized for its educational value and should not be used for the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease. It should not be used to replace the services of a qualified practitioner.

Carol Weaver is reiki practitioner with a private practice in Canada – she can work remotely or by appointment… and can be contacted through her website here at.. http://www.carolweaver.com or by email by replying to this article if you would like more information and/or enquire about her work.

? copyright 2008-2010 Carol Weaver

Are you considering a change to your current health status? Do you need a new and different way to learn about your health alternatives? There are many exciting ways awaiting you to help you to achieve your goals and improve your health.

Herbs, yogurt and even spices from your kitchen can help improve your health. Walking, Biking, hiking, exercise, minerals, vitamins even drinking water are all helpful. But what about the aches and pains that arrive from exercise. Pain killers are not the only solution, there are a lot of alternatives out there to help relieve the pain.

Alternative help is available – illnesses, weight loss, quit smoking, depression, plantar fasiciitis, high blood pressure high cholesterol, diabetic, urinary track infections, headaches and many more.

Alternative suggestions – Acupuncture, Herbalist, Naturopathic, Natural health remedies, Alternative healthcare, Alternative treatment, Holistic therapy, Nature cures, Herbal remedies, Chiropractors, Alternative Therapy and many more.

YOUR HEALTH is what is important. Using an alternative method may help improve you life. What could be more important to you then enjoying your life that way it should be. Check out all of the options to help you improve how you are feeling. ENJOY living and enjoy your life with a healthier you. DO it for you, DO it for your family.

Family life is great. You need to be healthy, in order to keep you family healthy. Your family needs you to be in the best of health, for you to keep them in the best of their health. Research you options for good health.

Charlotte Waterman http://goodnaybor.com – Submit your name and email address on my website to receive YOUR FREE NEWSLETTERS about alternative medicines and how to improve your health everyday. You will need to confirm your subscription to get my free newsletters.

For those who are concerned about avoiding or treating influenza, there may be an herbal and homeopathic alternative. Flu shot medicine or vaccine contains only three strains of dead viruses. Leaving a number of strains, including the strain referred to as the bird flu, that is currently making people very ill in parts of Asia and India.

Andrographis paniculata is one herbal and homeopathic alternative. Flu shot medicine is designed to create an immunity to specific strains of flu virus. These viruses are constantly changing, thus the reason for a different vaccine each year. Andrographis paniculata is recommended because it stimulates the entire immune system and studies have shown that it is effective in the treatment of influenza. One study in Volgograd showed that andrographis paniculata, not only contributed to quicker recovery, but also reduced the risk of post-flu complications. Flu shot medicine is still considered by most doctors and the Center for Disease Control to be the most effective flu preventative.

There is no herbal and homeopathic alternative flu shot medicine, meaning there are no herbs, botanicals or other natural products that will cause the body to build up an immunity to specific strains of the flu. All herbal and homeopathic products can do is stimulate the immune system allowing the body’s natural immunities to these viruses to take over. People who have strong immune systems get fewer colds and flu viruses. People with chronic illnesses and those who have weakened immune systems should not rely on an herbal and homeopathic alternative. Flu shot medicine is still the best choice for these people.

Healthy people consider products that boost the immune system as herbal and homeopathic alternative flu shot medicine. Taken regularly, particularly during cold and flu season, products containing andrographis paniculata, beta glucans and other herbal flu remedies (bilberry, green tea, ginseng, turmeric, etc) may prevent colds and flus and complications that may arise from them. Even people who take the flu shot can benefit from these herbal products. They have few unwanted side effects and scientific studies, as well as historical use as treatment for colds and other infections, have shown that they can be effective and safe.

In addition to the already mentioned herbal and homeopathic alternative flu shot medicine or remedies, extra vitamin C and essential minerals such as copper, manganese, magnesium and zinc are all important to assist the body’s natural immune system in fighting off viruses. Add these to proper diet, adequate rest, an immune system booster and you have a recipe for improved health, as well as a possible herbal and homeopathic alternative flu shot medicine. For more information about how to boost your immune system and protect yourself from colds and flus this year, visit www.immune-system-booster-guide.com.

Patsy Hamilton has more than twenty years experience as a health care professional and currently writes informational articles for the Immune System Booster Guide. Read more at http://www.immune-system-booster-guide.com

Zandra Jones, RN BBA is an alternative health advisor and owner Alternative Herbal Treatment

Everyone should be able to enjoy their life without the hassle of painful injections, or special diets, which is why an herbal treatment for diabetes may be worth investigating for you. Diabetes doesn’t have to control your life or how you live it. No longer would you have to use shots to regulate your body, or stop enjoying the foods that you once enjoyed. By using herbs as your treatment source, you can regain that control without having to make special considerations for yourself.

Herbs have long been known to assist people with ailments or diseases. Some herbs and minerals people are using with success are cinnamon, chromium picolinate, gymnema sylvestra, and vanadyl sulfate. You may want to look at Optimum an alternative herbal product to treat diabetes.  With a little research, you may find a new alternative to help you with your diabetes. Start at the library when searching for an herbal treatment for diabetes. There are many books available that can give insightful information of how particular herbs can affect diabetes. You may even be able to find a book on growing your own herbs.

Next, you may want to try an internet search. You can easily find a forum where others have already found and used an herbal treatment for diabetes. If you would prefer to speak with someone in person, check your phone book’s yellow pages for a practicing dietician in your area, or take a trip to the health food store and see what they would recommend. Both the dietician and health food store would be able to share what others have found that helps balance their diabetes. With the information of what has worked for others, you will be one step closer to finding an alternative for yourself.

When considering a new treatment method, everyone should consult with their doctor. Only with the guidance of an educated and trained professional would someone know that their herbal treatment for diabetes is the best alternative for them to use. Never begin a new treatment without first discussing the risks and possible alternatives that are available. You may find that using herbs in conjunction with a prescribed medicine is necessary, or your doctor may feel that herbs alone will be able to control your diabetes. Diabetes can be deadly, and professional medical consultation should be sought.       

Zandra Jones, RN BBA writes about alternative herbal treatment

Natural herbs play an enormously important role in todays modern world, and if you are to appreciate the importance natural herbs have, then you must first understand about where they came from, and what use they are primarily used for in today’s world.

What are Natural Herbs?

In essence, natural herbs have been around for ages, they have been a great source of nutrition and flavor in the human diet, and they have also been the main source of medicine and healing throughout human history, and the fact that they are still used widely today is not a throwback to the olden times but rather is an indication that natural herbs are a growing part of even today’s high technology world.

Many people with chronic diseases turn to herbal treatment for cure, relief and a better life. Medicinal herbs fall into a category known as complementary or alternative medicine. For centuries, herbs have come to our rescue helping us cure serious illnesses and give us relief from pain and suffering.

Since herbs have been proven to enhance one’ s health and wellbeing, it might be good to make them a part of your daily life. The reason why more people use nature herbs instead of the traditional drugs is the fact that they have no side effects like those associated with prescription medicine.

Phytoestrogenic herbs which are used for menopause are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, which women at menopause need most. Weight loss herbs might help you to quickly and easily lose all of that unwanted weight. Plant extracts such as genistein, Quercetin, lycopene, daidzein, rosaminic acid and beta sitosterol have been discovered and studied to provide relief to prostate gland enlargements. There are herbal remedies which one can take for a myriad of ailments

Herbal teas are another herb which have been part of the ancient and modern culture all around the world. For people who wish to detoxify body pollutants, herb tea can give instant cleansing to your body.

Even though natural herbs have no side effects, don’ t exceed the reccomended dosage and use only as directed by your doctor. When a drug is mixed with herbs, both can alter each other’ s ability to metabolize and take effect.

For more information about Natural Herbal Remedies, please visit us at Herbal Buyers Guide

Zandra Jones, RN BBA is a health advisor and owner of Alternative Herbal Treatment

Depressive disorder affects millions of Americans. This mood disorder can interfere with an individual's ability to function on a daily basis. Some people seek help from their physician who prescribes antidepressants. However, others prefer to find natural remedies for depression.

Amino acid supplements are nutritional supplements that are commonly used as one of the natural remedies for depression. These are taken in conjunction with other lifestyle modification including dietary changes as well as other vitamins and minerals. These natural remedies for depression do not yield good results alone but they have shown very good results when used together in an overall program.

Some people have had success in overcoming bouts of depression without using the amino acid supplements. These individuals found that vitamin and mineral therapy were perfect natural remedies for depression. People can become depressed if they are suffering from vitamin and mineral deficiencies. These individuals fair well simply using supplements to replace the deficient elements in their systems.

Vitamin B6 is a commonly used supplement that is among the most popular of the natural remedies for depression. This vitamin works with the body's nervous system in the processing of serotonin. Serotonin is directly linked to depressive disorder. Some individuals who have a serotonin imbalance may feel great relief from taking vitamin B6.

Folic acid is another element that can be effective in the treatment of depressive states. A deficiency in folic acid may be a result of stress (both physical and psychological) or excessive alcohol consumption. Adding folic acid to your natural remedies for depression may yield great results.

Other vitamins and minerals that are used as natural remedies for depression include vitamin B12, vitamin C and magnesium. Each of these vitamins and minerals are important in helping the body function normally. Balance in mood is often the result of a body that has enough nutrients.

Other natural remedies for depression come in the form of herbal supplements. Two popular herbs that are used to treat depressive disorder are St. John's Wort and Ginko. These two herbs have been reported to elevate mood as well as increase energy in many individuals.

Some people prefer to avoid pills and supplements all the way around. These individuals seek other natural remedies for depression. Light therapy is a useful treatment for certain kinds of depressive states. A person who suffers from seasonal depression may find great relief from using light therapy during the winter months.

Depression is a serious condition. Make sure that you discuss these natural remedies for depression with your physician before trying to treat the condition yourself. No one should experience a depressive state alone.