Medicinal herbs offer alternative means to treat health conditions and supplement your diet. Unlike vitamins and minerals, herbs are not regulated by the U.S. Federal Drug Administration, or FDA. Rather, you can seek guidance through standards set by the United States Pharmacopeia, USP. The USP is not a government agency, yet volunteer experts test over-the-counter medicinal supplements among other medications. Look for the USP label on any medicinal herbs you purchase.
History
Before standardization of medications, people relied on medicinal herbs to serve their health needs. The folklore is rich with the history of using medicinal herbs for anything from melancholy to women's issues to gastrointestinal upset. Use of herbs was widespread during early Chinese history and beyond. Many cultures used medicinal herbs for applications specific to their lifestyle. In Steven Foster's book, "Eastern-Central Medicinal Plants," the author relates how Native Americans used certain medicinal herbs to increase their running speed.
Uses
Many of the uses of medicinal herbs were discerned by simple observation. Herbs containing large concentrations of vitamin C, such as dandelion, became "spring tonics." After a long winter without fresh fruits or vegetables, these medicinal herbs offered a good source of vitamins, often quickly counteracting the effects of vitamin deficiencies, hence the associated medicinal properties. Other plants, such as jewelweed, seemed to miraculously cure the pain from stinging nettle, according to "Eastern-Central Medicinal Plants."
Cautions
The number one rule regarding medicinal herbs if you collect them yourself is proper identification. Some herbs, especially those related genetically, may appear similar. For example, wild carrot is an edible plant, yet water hemlock in the same genus is deadly. You must also consider your collection location. Never collect medicinal herbs in areas where pesticides or other toxins may contaminate the soil or plants. Likewise, make sure to collect plants only where it is permitted. Some areas may prohibit the collecting of wild plants. Check with local governing agencies for regulations.
Identification Tips
A field guide will help you to properly identify medicinal plants. You can use a magnifying glass to examine smaller plant structures that can help you identify the plants. You should also pay attention to the habitat when collecting plants, as it can often provide valuable clues for identification. For example, medicinal herbs associated with wetlands will unlikely be found in urban or grassland settings. Some medicinal herbs bloom in specific seasons. Flowers provide an easy means for identification. Knowing what season flowers bloom may be helpful to you.
Preparation
Medicinal herbs, whether you buy them or collect them, can be prepared in several ways depending upon the particular herb. Some plants, such as those of the mint family for digestive issues, make delightful teas from dried leaves. You can also use the fruits of some medicinal plants such as wild rose. The rose hips provide a good source of vitamin C, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
References
- United States Pharmacopeia: About USP
- "Eastern-Central Medicinal Plants"; Steven Foster and James A. Duke; 1977
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) (By mouth)
- "Mosby's Handbook of Herbs & Natural Supplements"; L. Skidmore-Roth; 2005
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