Discovering the Healing Power of Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine has been a cornerstone of traditional health care for thousands of years. Herbal medicine began with our Palaeolithic hominid ancestors who used experimentation and observation. This trial and error has helped form the knowledge basis of how Naturopaths use herbal medicine to this day.

Today, Naturopaths merge the traditional plant knowledge with scientific, evidence-based research to treat acute and chronic conditions.

Qualified Naturopaths are trained to safely dispense herbal medicine through dosing within the prescribed limits and take into consideration numerous factors such as health conditions, drug and herbal interactions and contraindications.

Liquid extract herbal medicine used by The Nourishing Naturopath

What Is Herbal Medicine?

Herbal medicine uses plants for medicinal purposes.

Parts of the plants used include:

• Leaves

• Roots

• Flowers

• Seeds

• Bark

Herbal medicine is prepared as:

• Teas

• Tinctures (herbal material steeped in a vegetable glycerin or alcohol base)

• Capsules

• Topical applications

Active compounds (not limited to):

• Flavonoids

• Alkaloids

• Glycosides

• Saponins

Actions examples (not limited to) (what the active compounds in the plants do to the body):

• Antiemetic: To prevent or treat nausea and vomiting.

• Circulatory stimulant: Improves blood flow through peripheral body tissues.

• Cardiotonic: Improves the force of contraction of the heart.

• Carminative: Relieves flatulence and soothes intestinal spasm and pain.

• Diuretic: Increases urinary output.

• Immune modulating: Modulates and balances the activity of the immune system.

• Nervine: Improves the tone, vigour, and function of the nervous system.

• Vulnerary: Promotes the healing of wounds when applied locally

Example of the use of herbal medicine by a qualified Naturopath

Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) liquid extract containing the rhizome, prescribed for nausea (as an antiemetic) and bloating (as a carminative).

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) liquid extract containing the root, prescribed to help the body manage stress, improve energy (tonic and apoptogenic), and support immune function (immunomodulatory).

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) tea containing the flower prescribed to relax the mind before bed for a better sleep (mild sedative).

Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia) capsules containing the root prescribed for an acute viral infection (immune enhancing).

How to Use Herbal Medicine Safely

Consult a Healthcare Professional

Before starting any herbal treatment, talk to a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing conditions or take medications. Some herbs can interact with drugs or may not be suitable during pregnancy. A qualified Naturopath will of course check these contraindications before prescribing, but it is always safest to also consult your doctor.

Be Aware of Allergies

Some people may be allergic to certain plants without knowing. Watch for any unusual reactions (such as itchiness) and let your healthcare provider know. If you have difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis) stop use immediately and call 000.

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Herbal medicine offers a natural, gentle way to support your health and wellbeing. Your Naturopath will use informed decisions and their wealth of knowledge to decide if herbal medicine is right for you. All preparations are individualised to each patient with the highest care and consideration.