Looking around the fields and streets of Victoria these last few weeks, one cannot miss the abundance of new plant life. There are flowers, bushes, herbs and trees all preparing for a new season and putting on a dazzling display of colours and textures. But can there be more to these local plants than just stimulation for the eyes and nose?
Many of these plants around us contain an ability to heal. Within both their physical chemistry and their energetic presence lies the ability of our plant allies to help with varying health issues. I would like to introduce you to four local plants that have unique healing qualities.
Aesculus hippocastanum (Horsechestnut Tree)
The Horsechestnut tree grows along many streets in Victoria, although it is not native to this area. The first recorded medicinal use of this plant was in 1565 in a translation of Dioscorides’ Materia Medica. As a medicine the Horsechestnut fruit itself, and sometimes the bark, is used. It is primarily used for conditions of the Circulatory system including leg ulcers, varicose veins, inflammation of the veins and haemorrhoids. It can be taken internally under the supervision of a herbalist for these conditions, and can also be made into an ointment or cream for external use as well. Horsechestnut can also help reduce fluid retention by allowing reabsorption through the capillaries.
Achillea millefolium (Yarrow)
Yarrow is a small perennial (growing to 3 feet) with small white flowers. It has had many common names in the past, most of them relating to its history of use on the battlefields to help heal wounds. Even the Latin name Achillea has its root in the folklore of Achilles, the famed warrior, and it is said that Achilles used this herb for himself and his men on the battlefield. Yarrow today has a multitude of actions within the body including combating colds and flu by promoting fevers, having a bitter action on the digestive system to ease weak digestion and colic, helps to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduces heavy menstrual bleeding and pain. Yarrow has styptic properties meaning that it helps to stop bleeding from wounds as well.
Cytisus/Sarothamnus scoparius (Broom)
I have recently had quite a few patients come in complaining of allergic symptoms that are caused by this yellow flowered shrub which is a member of the pea family. Broom was brought to North America from Europe where it has a long history of use right back to the medieval texts of the 12th century. Broom is mainly used as a remedy for an irregular, fast heartbeat. The plant works on the electrical conductivity of the heart, slowing and regulating the transmission of impulses. It is also a strong diuretic, stimulating urination, which helps to reduce any oedema associated with heart failure. This plant should not be taken internally unless under the supervision of a Herbalist, and should never be taken by a pregnant woman as it can cause the uterus to contract.
Taraxacum officinalis (Dandelion)
I hope none of the readers out there ever thought that this plant was simply an irritating weed that needed to be removed from their garden as quickly as possible! Dandelion has amazing healing qualities and we should feel lucky to have it grow in such abundance around us. It is not unusual that it arrives early in the spring as this plant could be used for our own internal “Spring Cleaning”. It has strong actions of cleansing and detoxifying on the liver, gallbladder, digestive system and kidneys. Due to its cleansing action, Dandelion is able to help conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, arthritic conditions, gout, osteoarthritis and gall stones. As a medicine we use both the root and the leaves. One great way to enjoy the benefits of this plant is to use its leaves on your fresh garden salad. Just be sure to choose Dandelions that have not been sprayed with herbicides or pesticides. As Hippocrates said “Let medicine be thy food and food be thy medicine.”
If you have any specific questions about using Herbs to restore health, please send them to www.askaherbalist.ca
Monday, June 11, 2007
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Stress and Western Herbal Medicine
Stress and Western Herbal Medicine
June 4th, 2007
Although modern day living provides many new conveniences, there is still a large portion of the population that suffer from various degrees of stress. But what is stress and how does it affect people’s health? Basically stress can be described as any outside force that disrupts the internal balance or harmony within the body. These can include relationships (both personal and professional), work conditions and bodily health among others. Living in the city requires the ability to withstand some stress, but when it becomes overwhelming and begins causing physical complaints such as high blood pressure, insomnia, digestive upset and the inability to concentrate and focus, it is indicative that balance needs to be restored within the body.
By nature, stress is not a condition that can be “treated” itself, but rather the body can be given support through the use of healing plants, supplements, relaxation techniques and lifestyle adjustments to work through the stress in a healthy way.
Herbs to Use:
Herbal Medicine provides us with herbs with various actions that are beneficial in the treatment of stress. Herbalists use plants with adaptogenic, relaxant, adrenal tonic and nervous system restorative actions. Adaptogenic herbs include Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian Ginseng) and Withania somnifera (Ashwaghanda) which both effectively help the body adapt and cope with stress. Relaxing herbs are important as they can help calm the mind. Some great herbs for relaxation include Valeriana officinalis (Valerian) and Scutalleria lateriflora (Skullcap). As stress can sometimes lead to an over-use of adrenalin from the body to cope with stress, your adrenal glands (located on top of your kidneys) become exhausted and begin to cause other health problems. Borago officinalis (Borage) is a herb that works well to restore healthy adrenal function. Nervous system tonic herbs are used to help bring balance back to your nervous system and help you function and cope with stress by providing nutrition to nerve cells and restoring healthy cell activity. Herbs that have this action include Avena sativa (Oats) and Stachys officinalis (Wood Betony)
Lifestyle and Supplements:
One of the most important things to help with lifestyle stress is to examine the circumstances that trigger the stress and see how you can change your lifestyle patterns to minimize them. It is very beneficial to try to incorporate relaxation techniques into your life routine including yoga and meditation. If you feel that you are unable to cope with the stress in your life on your own, you should consult a Counselor or Psychologist to help work through the issues professionally. Good supplements to use during stressful periods of life include Vitamin A, B-complex, B6 and B12, C, D, E, Magnesium, Zinc and Oils of Evening Primrose or Borage.
Every individual is different and different herbs may be required. For a more customized approach to your stress, consult your local Medical Herbalist
June 4th, 2007
Although modern day living provides many new conveniences, there is still a large portion of the population that suffer from various degrees of stress. But what is stress and how does it affect people’s health? Basically stress can be described as any outside force that disrupts the internal balance or harmony within the body. These can include relationships (both personal and professional), work conditions and bodily health among others. Living in the city requires the ability to withstand some stress, but when it becomes overwhelming and begins causing physical complaints such as high blood pressure, insomnia, digestive upset and the inability to concentrate and focus, it is indicative that balance needs to be restored within the body.
By nature, stress is not a condition that can be “treated” itself, but rather the body can be given support through the use of healing plants, supplements, relaxation techniques and lifestyle adjustments to work through the stress in a healthy way.
Herbs to Use:
Herbal Medicine provides us with herbs with various actions that are beneficial in the treatment of stress. Herbalists use plants with adaptogenic, relaxant, adrenal tonic and nervous system restorative actions. Adaptogenic herbs include Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian Ginseng) and Withania somnifera (Ashwaghanda) which both effectively help the body adapt and cope with stress. Relaxing herbs are important as they can help calm the mind. Some great herbs for relaxation include Valeriana officinalis (Valerian) and Scutalleria lateriflora (Skullcap). As stress can sometimes lead to an over-use of adrenalin from the body to cope with stress, your adrenal glands (located on top of your kidneys) become exhausted and begin to cause other health problems. Borago officinalis (Borage) is a herb that works well to restore healthy adrenal function. Nervous system tonic herbs are used to help bring balance back to your nervous system and help you function and cope with stress by providing nutrition to nerve cells and restoring healthy cell activity. Herbs that have this action include Avena sativa (Oats) and Stachys officinalis (Wood Betony)
Lifestyle and Supplements:
One of the most important things to help with lifestyle stress is to examine the circumstances that trigger the stress and see how you can change your lifestyle patterns to minimize them. It is very beneficial to try to incorporate relaxation techniques into your life routine including yoga and meditation. If you feel that you are unable to cope with the stress in your life on your own, you should consult a Counselor or Psychologist to help work through the issues professionally. Good supplements to use during stressful periods of life include Vitamin A, B-complex, B6 and B12, C, D, E, Magnesium, Zinc and Oils of Evening Primrose or Borage.
Every individual is different and different herbs may be required. For a more customized approach to your stress, consult your local Medical Herbalist
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Allergies and Herbal Medicine
Allergies and Western Herbal Medicine
It is that time of the year again – allergy season! For many people living and working in Victoria this time of the year can be a nightmare trying to balance their daily routine with the unpleasant symptoms of allergies. Allergies are caused by allergens which are a variety of tiny things such as pollen, dust, dander and others. Our body flags these allergens as invaders and therefore triggers a defensive response which brings about a large and varied amount of symptoms. Symptoms range from itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, general fatigue, sneezing and sensitive skin. So what herbal medicines can you use to help alleviate your symptoms, and at the same time reduce your susceptibility to allergens in the first place?
Herbs to Use:
Herbal Medicine provides us with herbs with various actions that are beneficial in the treatment of allergies. Herbalists use plants with anti-allergic, relaxant, bronchodilating and immune boosting actions. Anti-allergic herbs include Gingko biloba (Gingko Tree) and Urtica dioica (Stinging Nettle) which both effectively reduce the body’s reaction to the presence of allergens. Relaxing herbs are important as research has shown that anxiety and stress can increase the symptoms of allergic responses. Some great herbs for relaxation include Chamomilla recutita (Chamomile) and Scutalleria lateriflora (Skullcap). As allergies can sometimes lead to a constriction in the airways, known as allergic asthma, herbs such as Lobelia inflata (Lobelia) and Ephedra sinica (Ephedra) are very beneficial, although these herbs should only be used under the direct supervision of a Professional Herbalist. Immune boosting herbs are very beneficial and one of the very best I can recommend is Echinacea angustifolia or Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower). It may seems strange to give immune boosting herbs during a time where it seems that our body is already defending itself, but herbs such as Echinacea help restore the healthy functioning of the immune system and might help to reset the allergic response to allergens.
Lifestyle and Supplements:
Studies have shown that removing pets, including birds, from the home have reduced the frequency of allergic reactions. Dust mites that live in our pillows and mattresses can also increase allergic responses. One way to alleviate this problem is to use bed products resistant to dust mite infestation, and to place your pillows in the freezer overnight to kill off the dust mites living in them. Try to increase relaxation techniques to reduce stress levels and ensure a good night’s sleep to give your body the energy to fight off the allergens. Good supplements to use during allergy season include Vitamin A, B-Complex, Vitamin C, Bromelain, Selenium and Zinc.
Diet:
There are certain foods that increase the allergic response and these foods should be avoided during peak times of allergies. Foods such as dairy, fatty and greasy foods and sugar should be avoided along with refined foods including white flour. Fresh and raw vegetables are great in assisting the nutrition levels of the body without causing a spike in the reactions. Rice is not known to cause any allergic reaction so you are free to eat rice, but you should choose brown rice over white rice. Be sure to drink plenty of water to help flush out any toxins within the body. Soups are great as they are easily digested and require less energy to assimilate the nutrients.
Every individual is different and different herbs may be required. For a more customized approach to your allergies, consult your local Medical Herbalist.
It is that time of the year again – allergy season! For many people living and working in Victoria this time of the year can be a nightmare trying to balance their daily routine with the unpleasant symptoms of allergies. Allergies are caused by allergens which are a variety of tiny things such as pollen, dust, dander and others. Our body flags these allergens as invaders and therefore triggers a defensive response which brings about a large and varied amount of symptoms. Symptoms range from itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, general fatigue, sneezing and sensitive skin. So what herbal medicines can you use to help alleviate your symptoms, and at the same time reduce your susceptibility to allergens in the first place?
Herbs to Use:
Herbal Medicine provides us with herbs with various actions that are beneficial in the treatment of allergies. Herbalists use plants with anti-allergic, relaxant, bronchodilating and immune boosting actions. Anti-allergic herbs include Gingko biloba (Gingko Tree) and Urtica dioica (Stinging Nettle) which both effectively reduce the body’s reaction to the presence of allergens. Relaxing herbs are important as research has shown that anxiety and stress can increase the symptoms of allergic responses. Some great herbs for relaxation include Chamomilla recutita (Chamomile) and Scutalleria lateriflora (Skullcap). As allergies can sometimes lead to a constriction in the airways, known as allergic asthma, herbs such as Lobelia inflata (Lobelia) and Ephedra sinica (Ephedra) are very beneficial, although these herbs should only be used under the direct supervision of a Professional Herbalist. Immune boosting herbs are very beneficial and one of the very best I can recommend is Echinacea angustifolia or Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower). It may seems strange to give immune boosting herbs during a time where it seems that our body is already defending itself, but herbs such as Echinacea help restore the healthy functioning of the immune system and might help to reset the allergic response to allergens.
Lifestyle and Supplements:
Studies have shown that removing pets, including birds, from the home have reduced the frequency of allergic reactions. Dust mites that live in our pillows and mattresses can also increase allergic responses. One way to alleviate this problem is to use bed products resistant to dust mite infestation, and to place your pillows in the freezer overnight to kill off the dust mites living in them. Try to increase relaxation techniques to reduce stress levels and ensure a good night’s sleep to give your body the energy to fight off the allergens. Good supplements to use during allergy season include Vitamin A, B-Complex, Vitamin C, Bromelain, Selenium and Zinc.
Diet:
There are certain foods that increase the allergic response and these foods should be avoided during peak times of allergies. Foods such as dairy, fatty and greasy foods and sugar should be avoided along with refined foods including white flour. Fresh and raw vegetables are great in assisting the nutrition levels of the body without causing a spike in the reactions. Rice is not known to cause any allergic reaction so you are free to eat rice, but you should choose brown rice over white rice. Be sure to drink plenty of water to help flush out any toxins within the body. Soups are great as they are easily digested and require less energy to assimilate the nutrients.
Every individual is different and different herbs may be required. For a more customized approach to your allergies, consult your local Medical Herbalist.
Monday, April 9, 2007
Western Herbal Medicine
What is Herbal Medicine?
Herbal Medicine is the use of plant remedies in the treatment of disease and is the oldest form of medicine known. Our ancestors, by trial and error, found the most effective local plants to heal their illnesses. Now, with the advancement of science enabling us to identify the chemical constituents within these plants, we can better understand their healing powers. Herbalism, while classified as complementary here in western countries, is still the most widely practiced form of medicine worldwide with over 80% of the world’s population relying on herbs for health.
How do Herbs Work?
People have always relied on plants for food to nourish and sustain the body. Herbal medicine can be seen in the same way. Plants with a particular affinity for certain organs or systems of the body are used to feed and restore health to those parts which have become weakened. As the body is strengthened so is it’s power and ability to fight off disease and when balance and harmony are restored, health will be regained.
What are the Differences between Pharmaceutical and Herbal Medicines?
Many of the pharmaceutical drugs used today are based on plant constituents and when scientists seek new cures for disease they first look to the plant world. They find, extract and then synthesize in the laboratory a single active constituent from the plant (the active constituent is the part of the plant that has a therapeutic value). This can then be manufactured on a large scale.
Herbal medicines, however, are extracts from a part of the whole plant (eg. leaves, roots, flowers, berries, etc.) and contain hundreds, perhaps thousands of plant constituents.
Herbalists believe that the active constituents are synergistically balanced within the plant and are made more or less powerful by the numerous other substances present. For example, synthetic diuretics (drugs that increase the flow of urine) seriously reduce the potassium level in the body, this has to be restored using potassium supplements. The Herbalist uses Dandelion leaves which are a potent diuretic but contain potassium to naturally replace that which is lost.
What can Herbal Medicine Treat?
Herbal Medicine can treat almost any condition that patients, from the very young to the very old, might take to their doctor. Common complaints seen by herbalists include:
* Skin problems such as psoriasis, acne and eczema.
* Digestive disorders such as peptic ulcers, colitis, IBS, heartburn and indigestion.
* Cardiovascular problems like angina, high blood pressure, varicose veins and varicose ulcers.
* Gynaecological disorders like premenstrual syndrome and menopausal problems.
* Joint conditions such as arthritis, gout and inflammation.
* Sleep disorders such as insomnia.
* Mood disorders including anxiety, panic attacks, stress and depression.
* Allergic conditions including seasonal allergies, asthma, wheezing and shortness of breath.
* Migraines and headaches.
* Colds and Flus and general immune boosting, including acute infections such as Urinary Tract Infections.
Custom Approach to Treatment
Because no two individuals are the same and the same disease can present differently in different people, it only makes sense that the herbal medicine given to each client is custom formulated solely for them. The Herbalist will determine the best herbs to use for the holistic approach of the illness and then determine the best method of administering the herbs, either through tinctures, teas, creams, etc. Each client that comes to see a Medical Herbalist will be given their very own customized herbal formulation to ensure that they get the best results. This is what sets us apart from buying herbal medicines off the shelf.
If you have any specific questions about using Herbs to restore health, please send them to www.askaherbalist.ca
Herbal Medicine is the use of plant remedies in the treatment of disease and is the oldest form of medicine known. Our ancestors, by trial and error, found the most effective local plants to heal their illnesses. Now, with the advancement of science enabling us to identify the chemical constituents within these plants, we can better understand their healing powers. Herbalism, while classified as complementary here in western countries, is still the most widely practiced form of medicine worldwide with over 80% of the world’s population relying on herbs for health.
How do Herbs Work?
People have always relied on plants for food to nourish and sustain the body. Herbal medicine can be seen in the same way. Plants with a particular affinity for certain organs or systems of the body are used to feed and restore health to those parts which have become weakened. As the body is strengthened so is it’s power and ability to fight off disease and when balance and harmony are restored, health will be regained.
What are the Differences between Pharmaceutical and Herbal Medicines?
Many of the pharmaceutical drugs used today are based on plant constituents and when scientists seek new cures for disease they first look to the plant world. They find, extract and then synthesize in the laboratory a single active constituent from the plant (the active constituent is the part of the plant that has a therapeutic value). This can then be manufactured on a large scale.
Herbal medicines, however, are extracts from a part of the whole plant (eg. leaves, roots, flowers, berries, etc.) and contain hundreds, perhaps thousands of plant constituents.
Herbalists believe that the active constituents are synergistically balanced within the plant and are made more or less powerful by the numerous other substances present. For example, synthetic diuretics (drugs that increase the flow of urine) seriously reduce the potassium level in the body, this has to be restored using potassium supplements. The Herbalist uses Dandelion leaves which are a potent diuretic but contain potassium to naturally replace that which is lost.
What can Herbal Medicine Treat?
Herbal Medicine can treat almost any condition that patients, from the very young to the very old, might take to their doctor. Common complaints seen by herbalists include:
* Skin problems such as psoriasis, acne and eczema.
* Digestive disorders such as peptic ulcers, colitis, IBS, heartburn and indigestion.
* Cardiovascular problems like angina, high blood pressure, varicose veins and varicose ulcers.
* Gynaecological disorders like premenstrual syndrome and menopausal problems.
* Joint conditions such as arthritis, gout and inflammation.
* Sleep disorders such as insomnia.
* Mood disorders including anxiety, panic attacks, stress and depression.
* Allergic conditions including seasonal allergies, asthma, wheezing and shortness of breath.
* Migraines and headaches.
* Colds and Flus and general immune boosting, including acute infections such as Urinary Tract Infections.
Custom Approach to Treatment
Because no two individuals are the same and the same disease can present differently in different people, it only makes sense that the herbal medicine given to each client is custom formulated solely for them. The Herbalist will determine the best herbs to use for the holistic approach of the illness and then determine the best method of administering the herbs, either through tinctures, teas, creams, etc. Each client that comes to see a Medical Herbalist will be given their very own customized herbal formulation to ensure that they get the best results. This is what sets us apart from buying herbal medicines off the shelf.
If you have any specific questions about using Herbs to restore health, please send them to www.askaherbalist.ca
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)