Many drugs have been developed from herbs but traditionally herbs are not used like drugs merely to address a symptom – for example if you have a headache – take feverfew. Usually a herbalist will want to try to find out why you have a headache and try to address that if possible.
Whole plants are used in herbal medicine. This enables more than one avenue for their use – for example, feverfew cited above, is a good anti-inflammatory, it has anti-cancer activity and is very bitter – it is not just good for headaches.
When taking herbs it is important to take appropriate amounts for a suitable amount of time. Health food shop employees are rarely trained sufficiently to give you that kind of advice – it is important to consult a properly trained herbalist.
This is especially true if you are taking other medications.
Herbs address different body systems and can support a wide range of health problems. The following list is not exhaustive, but gives some idea of conditions that herbs can help with:
*Arthritis and joint problems
*Acne and skin problems
*Chronic infections
*ADD/ADHD
*Allergies, eczema, asthma
*Coughs, colds and sinus problems
*Cystitis and urinary tract issues
*Circulation and heart problems
*Digestion, irritable bowel syndrome, reflux
*Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia
*Children’s problems
*Poor immunity, cancer support
*Stress, stress management, emotions
*Painful periods, heavy bleeding, PMS
*Infertility, menopause, pregnancy
*Brain fog, some memory and concentration issues
*Recovery from surgery/long illness/debility
*Support for celiacs
Taking a standardized extract is not the same as taking the whole plant, as naturally occurring co-factors may not be at the usual level for best effect and minimum side effects. At Riverdell Herbs, LLC we use a number of dried and fresh herbs made into teas and tinctures so the full benefit of the ingredients is more readily bioavailable.