Herbology is a fast-growing trend in the alternative medicine world. Health professionals are realizing the the health benefits of various plants and herbs. Herbology, or herbal medicine, can be used in a variety of ways, and has the possibility to treat many common health conditions naturally. Headaches, colds, eczema and menstrual cramps are a few examples.
History
According to WhatIsHolistic.com, herbology is the study of plants and herbs that contain healing properties. Nearly 4,000 years ago the early Europeans called plants with medicinal qualities "herbs" after the Latin term "herba," which means green plants. Though it was not yet called herbology, the use of plants as medicine dates all the way back to the time of the Neanderthals.
How Common is the Use of Herbology in the U.S.?
Chris Kilham, known as the Medicine Hunter, reports that around 85 percent of the world uses herbs as their primary source of medication. Currently, America is not a part of that percentage, though the use of herbs to treat medical conditions has risen in popularity over recent years. In the 1950s, medicine began to take on a more synthesized ingredient list, though many of the new ingredients were originally plant-based.
Popular Uses
Lavender can help relax the mind and body; echinacea fights the common cold; oolong tea may soothe atopic dermatitis; cranberry extract reduces the pain of a urinary tract infection and aloe vera helps heal minor cuts and burns. Several of these popular holistic remedies have undergone scientific research and produced positive results.
Benefits
Using herbs to treat health conditions is a natural way to heal your body. Many prescription medications have synthetic ingredients that can cause side effects which throw your body's natural rhythm out of balance. Herbal remedies are easily accessible and are more gentle on your body. When used carefully, side effects are minimal compared to conventional medicine.
Precautions
Herbal remedies do not always equal safe treatment. There are many herbs considered poisonous to the human body and a few more that are unsafe in large quantities. Because of this, it is essential to consult with a qualified health professional prior to any herbal treatment you wish to try.
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