Herbal or botanical medicine has been used by people around the world since before the advent of the written word. Certain herbs are indigenous to various areas of the world; however, with modern transportation and the rise of the Internet, herbs from all over the world are available to individuals worldwide. Herbs specifically found in North America were known to the Native Americans hundreds of years ago and are considered a part of Western herbal medicine culture.
Native American Medicinals
The Native Americans made a great contribution to herbal medicine by adding 220 herbal substances to the The United States Pharmacopeia and National Formulary, the two US government agencies that record information and set standards about the various herbs, supplements, vitamins and drugs available. As far back as 1890, the American Indians identified and added 42 new herbs to the National Formulary list.
Wintergreen
The active ingredient in wintergreen is methyl salicylate, which produces a soothing quality to sore muscles. It has been administered as an herbal tea for overall systemic relief of aching joints and muscles. In addition, the leaves can be used as a poultice and placed on painful areas to soothe away inflammation.
Licorice
Licorice is native to North America and was used by the American Indians to relive earaches, soothe irritated mucus membranes in the throat, esophagus and the stomach, and as an expectorant. The natural herb is 50 times sweeter than sugar. Nowadays, licorice root is often imported; however, wild licorice plants still grow freely across the United States. Licorice can raise the blood pressure and should not be used by those taking medicines for hypertension unless under the supervision of your doctor.
Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh has been used for centuries to aid women who have uterine problems. In specific, it is an excellent treatment to stimulate labor. The homeopathic remedy caulophyllum is made from blue cohosh and is used for this purpose. The herbal remedy can raise the blood pressure and should be avoided unless used under medical supervision.
Willow Bark
Willow bark contains natural chemicals that act to reduce inflammation and pain. The active ingredient in willow has been used to make aspirin or acetylsalicylic acid. Willow bark is generally consumed as an herbal tea. Do not use this remedy if you are allergic to aspirin. Willow can thin the blood, so do not use this remedy if you take blood thinners except under a health care practitioner's supervision.
Cascara
Cascara is used primarily for the treatment of constipation and for upset stomach. It is usually administered as a tea and is very bitter. Cascara is found in many herbal and commercial laxative preparations.
Precautions
Although many herbs are safe for use if directions are followed, others may cause severe side effects. Always consult with your health practitioner before using unfamiliar herbs and always follow dosing guidelines. If you develop any unfamiliar symptoms, contact your practitioner and stop taking the herb.
References
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- "Herbs for Health and Healing"; Kathi Keville and Peter Korn; 1998
- University of Illinois at Chicago: Herbs and Herbal Remedies
- "Back to Eden"; Jethro Kloss; 2002
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