Herbalism: Medicine of Belonging
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”
~Albert Einstein
What is Herbalism?
Shantree Kacera, R.H., D.N., Ph.D.
The term ‘herb’ refers to a plant used for medicinal purposes. The medicinal benefits of herbs have been known for centuries. Humans have always depended on plants for Medicine, food, and healing. The healing properties of herbs have not changed through the centuries—what was a healing herb a few hundred years ago is still a healing herb today. Many of the benefits of herbs are not so much based on scientific study but rather on the consistent observations made by herbal practitioners throughout the centuries.
In India, herbal therapy is the most essential traditional treatment method today. We are now seeing an increased acceptance and popularity of herbal use in Western countries. The recognition of their value is widely increasing as many people seek a greater understanding of their body and mind, thereby assuming more responsibility for their health and well-being. Herbal medicines have soared in popularity. People are looking for safe, effective, and time-proven Medicine.
When properly used, herbs are safe, gentle, and effective. They should be treated like other medicines in that it is important to follow the recommendations of a well-experienced herbalist.
Herbalism: Unlocking the Healing Benefits of Nature
The natural chemical properties of certain herbs have been shown to have medicinal value and are used in some modern drugs; however, unlike conventional Medicine, herbalists use the ‘whole’ herb or plant rather than isolating and breaking down chemical compounds and then synthesizing them. This is because the plant, being a part of Nature, represents perfect balance; healing requires the natural combination of elements in the plant or herb, not just a single chemical within it.
Herbs have “Prana” or “Life-Force Energy” in all their active ingredients. Because they are recognizable by the body’s intelligence, they are assimilated more efficiently and help the body to:
A. Activate cells,
B. Build tissues,
C. Cleanse the system,
D. Direct aid to sick body parts and organs.
Different cultures have developed different herbal cures. In some countries, such as India and China, herbs have continued to be an essential part of Medicine over the centuries, and herbs are widely used in Traditional Ayurveda. Knowledge about the power of herbs has only recently started to re-emerge in the West, and they are now becoming a popular alternative form of treatment for many conditions.
Many mild herbs can be self-prescribed for minor conditions, such as chamomile tea to help you relax or peppermint tea to help with digestion. You can find out more about herbs by following some of the links below. However, herbs can be very powerful, and care should be taken. The safest course of action is to consult a qualified herbalist.
Herbal Benefits
How Do Herbal Medicines Work?
Herbal Medicines are made from plant parts or plant products. They are 100% natural and are increasingly organically grown. The majority of plants contain a range of substances that have related or supporting actions, thus making the whole remedy complete and effective.
Aspirin was developed after a German chemist analyzed the constituents of the herb Meadowsweet. Aspirin is a synthetic version of the natural salicylic acid found in this plant. If taken over a long period, aspirin can cause damage to the lining of the stomach. If Meadowsweet is taken instead, however, this will not happen, as the whole plant also contains a slimy mucilage that coats and thus protects the gut lining. There are many other examples where orthodox researchers have found that isolated constituents were less effective than the whole plant.
Herbal remedies do not have aggressive action or the side effects of some modern drugs. An herbal formula will usually comprise 4-7 herbs, which are compatible with each other and will act to have the maximum impact on the condition while being gentle and supportive to the individual. Herbal medicines are not intended to “force” the body to “get better” but rather to help it return to normal functioning.
What is a Herbalism consultation like?
An herbalist will usually spend at least an hour or more taking a full case history to determine which herbs you need. A professional herbalist would also carry out a full evaluation. They will then recommend specific herbs, which may be in fluid juice extract or tea form. They may also suggest dietary changes, exercises, and other therapies to help the healing process.
What are the benefits of Herbalism?
Herbs can help with general health and also help treat most conditions.
Herbal Medicine has been shown to be effective in a wide range of conditions and can at least give relief in chronic ones.
Complaints commonly treated include:
• Skin conditions: eczema, psoriasis
• Digestive disorders: peptic ulcers, irritable bowel
• Heart and circulation problems: angina, high blood pressure, anemia, poor circulation, varicose veins, hemorrhoids
• Gynecological problems: pre-menstrual syndrome and premenopausal problems
• Urinary/genital conditions: cystitis, prostatitis, thrush, night incontinence (children/elderly)
• Joint disorders: arthritis
• Nervous system complaint: stress, insomnia, migraine, depression, post-viral/chronic, fatigue syndrome/M.E.
• Immunity and reoccurring infections: colds, respiratory infections, sinusitis
Herbalism: Medicine of Belonging
Plant medicines can assist you and others in maintaining the highest quality of health and well-being. Herbalism is the Medicine of belonging, the direct experience of the whole healing part. To heal ourselves, we must know ourselves, and all of ecology, spirituality, intuition and common sense tell us that we are all one.
Humanity is facing the realities of a shared planet. We may be at the turning point of dawning recognition that our world's intimate embrace is a healing force moving humanity towards a transformation of our relationship with the Earth, each other, and ourselves.
Herbalism of the future is clearly seen in the new paradigm of harmoniously living with the Earth. It offers a complete approach to blending ancient wisdom with a modern understanding of working with living plants that support our environment and global human communities.
Herbalism is the original Medicine of the planet and the Medicine of the future.
“We must never lose our sense of awe at the magnificence of this planet.” ~Anonymous
Bring Herbalism Into Your Life
The Living Centre offers a unique synthesis of Herbalism wisdom with the cutting-edge knowledge of modern plant medicine to support you in reclaiming or maintaining the health and well-being of body, mind, emotion, and spirit. Those attending any of our workshops or training are nourished each day with wild edible plants as part of your vegan, live-food lunch to support the body for energy and vitality, the mind for clarity, the emotions for contentment, and the spirit for expansiveness.