Herbal Medicines

Herbal medicine is the most widespread of all forms of medicine across the world, both historically and even today. At some time all cultures have used herbalism as the main system of treatment. Its origins are essentially the origins of mankind itself. Probably the earliest herbal remedy tradition comes from India. Medical knowledge from there spread into China on the one hand and into the Middle East on the other. The philosophy underlying Ancient Egyptian, and later Graeco-Roman, medicine has many similarities with both the old Ayur-Vedic system from northern India and traditional Chinese medicine.

Modern Western herbal medicine stems from the knowledge of the Greeks, with a strong input from the Native American tradition too. Increasingly, research being carried out today often confirms centuries-old empirical knowledge. Around 80 per cent of the world's population still relies on herbal medicine for their health needs, and even within conventional Western medicine up to 20 per cent of drugs are derived from plants in one way or another.

Herbalism guide in making home remedy

Herbs are almost certainly the most popular method of self-help in minor complaints, and introduce people to natural medicine. Throughout this home remedy site you will find to how to take herbs internally; the easiest method is to make a tea, using a rough rule of 5 ml (1 tsp) per person plus the same for the teapot (many of the most popular herbs are available in tea bags, simply use one of these). If using fresh herbs, for example Lemon Balm you can use double the above amounts.

For stronger, more medicinal brews, you need to make either an infusion or a decoction. For either an infusion or a decoction, the standard dose is 100 - 150 ml - three times a day.

Many of the herbs found in gardens today have been used by herbalists for over two thousand years.