THE HEALING POWER OF HERBS

[Guest guest]

FriendsForHealthNaturally , " JoAnn Guest

<angelprincessjo> " <angelprincessjo> wrote:

 

Hi Everyone!

I am sending along something from the foreward of one of my

favorite books!

This is indeed true! The more I learn about the wonderful value of

medicinal plants, the more I am inspired to learn!!

JoAnn

 

" The Healing Power of Herbs "

The Enlightened Person's Guide to the Wonders of Medicinal Plants

 

Foreward by Terry Lemerond

President, Enzymatic Therapy

 

Preface

By Michael T. Murray, N.D.

 

 

Simply stated, practitioners of herbal medicine use plants or plant

substances as medicinal agents. But despite our awareness of the

medicinal properties of plants, our knowledge of how plants actually

affect human physiology remains fragmentary.

Whereas many practitioners are content to accept the empirical

evidence of a plant's therapeutic indication and effectiveness, other

wish to discover whether the plant is truly effective and what its

mechanism of action may be. I am largely in the latter category.

What does herbal medicine mean to me? I cannot effectively express my

feelings on discovering the remarkable ways in which herbal medicines

work. Humility, awe, wonder, joy, and respect often overcome me as I

discover the true beauty and harmony that exists in nature.

The more I learn about herbal medicine, the stronger my faith in

nature and naturopathic medicines becomes. I want to share not only

the information I have discovered, but my faith as well. It is my

hope that this book will inspire you.

The bottom line for any practitioner or patient is the result!

challenge yourself to study botanical medicine and you will achieve

results.

 

 

Foreward by Terry Lemerond

President, Enzymatic Therapy

 

What makes Dr. Murray's work so unique and immensely valuable is his

careful blending of concise and understandable clinical

recommendations with thorough referencing from the peer reviewed

scientific literature.

 

He has spent thousands of hours combing the international research

on herbal medicines.

When he makes a recommendation, it is both clinically relevant and

scientifically proven.

 

While I respect the age-old wisdom of natural medicine and

recognize that placebo-controlled scientific studies are not

necessary to prove the efficacy of a botanical medicine that has been

used for a thousand years, that is no reason to ignore the wealth of

information that researchers have gleaned.

 

My belief is that the best information is that which combines and

expands the best of clinical experience with applicable scientific

research. That is what Dr. Murray has done.

 

He has not avoided the challenge of writing to the intelligent

reader in a manner that is trully informative. He uses and carefully

defines technical terms as appropriate to further understanding while

avoiding obscure and excess technicality.

 

On the one hand the book can be used as a simple guide, by using the

herbal formulas Dr. Murray has compiled; on the other hand it can

serve as a reference manual for the person who is seriously

interested in herbal medicine and will pursue the comprehensive

references provided at the end of each chapter.

 

 

Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr. N.D.

President, John Bastyr College

--- End forwarded message ---

[Guest guest]

Nature's Pharmacy.

THE HEALING POWER OF HERBS

 

by Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D

 

When you talk about illness and disease, scientists believe all chronic

illnesses are accompanied by " nutritional deficiencies " and imbalances in the

essential chemical elements that make up our bodies. Many think of nutritional

deficiencies in terms of an inadequate diet and this is often the case. There

are, however, other ways in which the body exhausts its valuable supply of

chemical elements.

 

Excessive mental work, for example, can deplete the brain, nerves and glands.

Stress can wreak havoc on our immune system. Sometimes we simply neglect our

bodies or forget to get enough fresh air, sunshine and exercise. Bottom line,

any abuse, neglect or overwork to our bodies can leave us with nutritional

deficiencies. Once the body is depleted of needed chemical elements, the tissues

begin to breakdown, weakening a particular organ, gland or tissue and disease

ensues.

 

Symptoms of ill health may not express themselves for quite some time.

Typically, the first symptom of disease to appear is fatigue. Next, we may get

frequent infections, colds or the flu. Many times early symptoms we experience

are taken for granted as a natural sign of aging. When left unchecked the

underlying causes can grow and proliferate - creating chronic disease.

 

It's helpful to remember that the appearance of symptoms, such as

arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis, mark the clinical

stage of a disease. However, when our skin becomes dry, when we have shoulder

pain, or excessive bloating, gas, constipation or diarrhea, each tell us

something is wrong-that healing needs to occur.

 

Over the past decade, the popularity of herbal medicine has exploded. Walk into

any drugstore, supermarket or discount store and you can easily find herbal

remedies on the shelves. Herbs are natural remedies derived from whole plants,

their roots, leaves, stems or seeds. Herbs are available in a variety of forms,

including fresh, dried, in tablets or capsules and even bottled in liquid form.

You can buy them individually or in mixtures formulated for a specific

condition.

 

Historically, the use of herbs to facilitate healing predates some of the

earliest written documents known to man. These documents record dozens of

medicinal plants, including myrrh, castor oil, garlic and their healing

properties. Over the years, the curative properties of herbs and medicinal

plants have not changed. Herbs that were used for healing thousands of years ago

are still utilized by many herbalists today.

 

For those new to the world of herbal therapy, the most extraordinary and

tantalizing thing about herbs are their proven action and incredible

versatility. The actions of herbs are due in part to their active constituents.

Active constituents are special chemicals and combination of chemicals and oils

that are present in each particular plant that work together synergistically to

give the plant its particular therapeutic value.

 

Therapeutically, the goal of herbal therapy is to help the body cleanse itself

and heal naturally. In today's society, we have become accustomed to magic

bullets and instant fixes. Herbs don't function that way. Herbs work to feed the

body the nutrients it needs so our bodies can heal themselves. Herbs have three

general functions in the body 1) they can be used to help the body eliminate or

detoxify; 2) they can help the body " maintain " by counteracting physical

symptoms, thus allowing the body to heal or 3) they can be used to help the body

build or tone an organ.

 

When working with herbal remedies, some notice an improvement of symptoms within

a few days. Chronic health problems, on the other hand, often take longer to

resolve themselves. As a general rule, you should allow the body a minimum of

three months to correct itself. Individuals suffering from long term chronic

conditions should stay on their herbal program for an additional month for every

year they have experienced their health concern. So for example, if you're

working on a problem you've had for two years, give your body three months plus

an additional two months to correct itself. This is obviously just a guideline,

but it does tend to put a bit of perspective into the use of herbs.

 

So while we have talked about using herbal therapies to help the body rebuild

itself from chronic illnesses, herbs can also be used to address a number of

minor health concerns that we may experience as part of our every day lives. For

example, herbs can be used to reduce pain and inflammation. They can be used to

kill the bacteria and viruses associated with the common cold or flu. They can

be used to calm us down, speed us up and even spice up our sex life.

 

Around the world, there are hundreds of herbs and medicinal plants that are

currently being used to improve health. If you have never worked with herbs

before, it is best to start off with a few herbs, work with them for a while and

then expand your repertoire over time. To help you get started, I have provided

you with a number of herbs that can be used to meet many health conditions you

may experience. This should get you well on your way to working with herbs and

herbal remedies.

 

Aloe Vera - (Aloe Vera) Aloe Vera gel is considered one of the most effective

healing agents for treatment of burns and injuries. It is also considered one of

the best herbal laxatives available. Its soothing, cleansing properties help the

body maintain healthy tissues.

 

Buchu - (Agathosma Betulina) Buchu is often used to treat inflammation of the

urethra, blood in the urine, bladder infections and other chronic urinary tract

disorders.

 

Cascara Sagrada - (Rhamnus purshiana) Cascara Sagrada is a popular treatment for

chronic constipation because it is not habit-forming. It is used to increase the

secretion of digestive fluids, create large soft bowel movements, and stimulate

the peristaltic action of the colon.

 

Chamomile - (Matricaria chamomilla) Chamomile is best known as a relaxing tonic

for jangled nerves. Its oils also contain anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial

properties. Chamomile may cause allergic reactions in persons sensitive to

ragweed or daisies.

 

Cloves - (Caryophyllus Aromatices) Clove oil is highly antiseptic and a

time-honored remedy for toothaches. It is also used to stop vomiting. It also

has a history of relieving indigestion, controlling diarrhea and healing cuts

and bites.

 

Comfrey - (Symphytum officinale) Comfrey is often used when rapid wound or bone

healing is required. It can be used both internally and externally in the

healing of fractures, wounds, sores and ulcers. Its astringent properties make

it useful for stopping hemorrhaging, whether from the stomach, lungs, bowels,

kidneys or hemorrhoids.

 

Damiana - (Turnera aphrodisiaca) Damiana stimulates the production of the male

hormone testosterone. Often used by women for hormone balancing, hot flashes,

infertility and menopause. Damiana is used for both frigidity in women and

impotence in men.

 

Dandelion - (Taraxacum officinale) Dandelion has helped serious liver conditions

such as hepatitis, jaundice and cirrhosis by stimulating the liver and

eliminating toxins from the blood. Dandelion has also helped strengthen the

kidneys and is used in combinations for high blood pressure and water retention.

 

Dong Quai - (Angelica sinensis) Dong quai is considered the " female ginseng " .

Dong quai helps to regulate monthly periods, relieve menopausal hot flashes,

eliminate cramps, as well as help a mother's recovery after childbirth. Avoid

using during early pregnancy.

 

Echinacea - (Echinacea purpurea) Echinacea's traditional usage is as a topical

agent to help the body repair skin wounds, and internally enhance the immune

system and stimulate the activity of white blood cells, which destroy bacteria,

viruses, and other foreign invaders.

 

Eyebright - (Euphrasia officinalis) Eyebright has anti-bacterial and astringent

properties that make if useful for cleansing the eyes - both internally and

externally as an eyewash. It can improve vision; relieve intra-ocular pressure

and protect the optic nerve in early stages of glaucoma.

 

Fenugreek - (Trigonella foenum-graecum) Fenugreek is one of the oldest medicinal

plants and is known for its ability to sooth inflamed tissues and improve mucus

and lymph system flow. It can be taken for bronchitis or fevers and gargled for

a sore throat.

 

 

 

Garlic - (Allium sativum) Garlic is one of the most important herbs; it has a

broad range of well-documented healing properties. It fights bacteria, fungi and

worms. It supports the circulatory system by fighting against blood clots. It

also stimulates bile, lowers blood sugar and cholesterol and improves the bloods

LDL/HDL ratio.

 

Ginger - (Zingiber officinale) Ginger stimulates the circulatory system. It acts

directly on the stomach and liver to reduce nausea and vomiting and is more

effective than Dramamine for motion sickness. Ginger can prevent the onset of

migraine headaches, especially if they start with strong nausea or vertigo.

 

Golden Seal - (Hydrastis Canadensis) Goldenseal's numerous uses are attributed

to its antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It soothes

irritated mucus membranes aiding the eyes, ears, nose and throat and has been

used to help reduce fevers, and relive congestion and excess mucus. Golden seal

should be used with caution by hypoglycemic people because it is known to lower

blood sugar levels.

 

Gotu Kola - (Centella asiatica) Gotu Kola is used for ailments of the nervous

system. It builds circulation in the brain and lower limbs and is often used to

help improve memory. Gotu Kola also exhibits antibiotic properties, where it

helps to break down the cell walls of invaders so the body's immune system works

more effectively.

 

Licorice Root - (Glytcyrrhiza glabra) Licorice feeds and activates the adrenal

glands for a higher, more even level of energy. Licorice helps destroy viruses

and stimulate and clear the lymphatic system. It can also be used by

hypoglycemics to improve blood sugar regulation.

 

Milk Thistle - (Silybum marianum) Milk Thistle is among the most ancient

remedies used for liver complaints. It is used to improve liver function,

protect against liver damage and enhance the regeneration of damaged liver cells

and is often used in cases of cirrhosis, toxic liver and other chronic liver

conditions.

 

Oregon Grape - (Berberis Aquifolium) Oregon grape is a powerful antibiotic that

is best known as a lymphatic and liver-stimulating blood cleanser. It is

particularly effective for skin diseases, which often occur when metabolic acids

build up in the body. Oregon grape can be used as a substitute for golden seal.

 

Red Raspberry - (Rubus idaeus) Red Raspberry has a wide reputation as a female

tonic for relieving excess menstrual bleeding. It strengthens and normalizes

female organs. Pregnant women can use red raspberry throughout the entire term

of pregnancy, where it is used to relieve nausea, prevent spotting, tone the

uterus in preparation of childbirth and reduce false labor. It can also be used

to lessen the pain and bleeding of child-birth and increase milk production.

 

Saw Palmetto - (Serenoa serrulata) Saw palmetto is an important glandular

strengthening herb. In men, it is used for impotence, sterility, underdeveloped

testicles and enlarged prostate. In women it is used for infertility, lack of

stamina, ovarian dysfunction and underdeveloped breasts.

 

Scullcap - (Scutellaria lateriflora) Scullcap is a nervous system and muscle

relaxant where there is excess excitement or uncontrolled movement. As an

antispasmodic, it has a sedative action that contributes to formulas for asthma,

seizures, menstrual cramping, and Parkinson's disease.

 

Slippery Elm - (Ulmus fulva) Slippery elm bark is a contact healer that coats,

soothes and heals irritated or inflamed tissues including hemorrhoids, ulcers,

burns and sore throats. It is a mild bulk laxative that absorbs toxins from the

bowel. Slippery elm and marshmallow root are very similar.

 

St. John's Wort - (Hypericum persoratum) St. John's wort is known for its

soothing, anti-depressant properties. It is often used to help improve the

irritable, stressed disposition of individuals trying to break their addiction

to tobacco and alcohol. St. John's Wort may cause photosensitization so be

cautious of overexposure to sunshine. Persons taking anti-depressant

prescription drugs should not take St. John's Wort at the same time.

 

White Willow - (Salix alba) White Willow Bark is best known for its ability to

alleviate pain and reduce fever and can be thought of as an aspirin pain

substitute. White Willow Bark is also beneficial for infections, heartburn,

cancer, and neuralgia.

 

Yarrow - (Achillea milleforlium) Yarrow has been used extensively to stop

bleeding of all kinds. It can be used externally and internally for wounds,

sores, rashes and piles. Yarrow encourages sweating which can reduce fevers and

take pressure off the kidneys and help remove toxins from the body. Yarrow can

produce darkened urine.

 

Before you run to the store and stock up on some herbs, it is important to

realize herbs have powerful ingredients and must be used appropriately. Although

herbal remedies are less likely than conventional medicine to cause side

effects, herbs nevertheless can be very potent. With that said, here are some

guiding principles for safe use of herbs.

 

Do your homework. Investigate the herb or herbal remedy before using it.

Whatever type of product you choose, the quality of an herb or herbal

preparation is only as good as the quality of the raw herb from which it was

made. Personally, I recommend using well-established brands of herbal remedies.

This can save you the time and energy of investigating products and often

increases your chances of getting reliable ones.

 

It is best to initiate an herbal program slowly. Start with one product at a

time and build to the desired amounts so you don't overwhelm your body.

 

It is also important to mention that when working with herbs, you may experience

a " healing crisis " as your problem begins to work its way out of your body. A

healing crisis is often experienced as a temporary aggravation of symptoms that

can flair-up for a few days. If the symptoms last longer than that, discontinue

your herbal regimen and visit your primary care provider.

 

From a practical point of view, it is best to work on only one or two health

problems at a time. Focus on the most important problem first. What you may find

is that your other health issues go away by themselves as the original problem

is eliminated.

 

Check with your primary care provider before starting an herbal therapy program.

As with all complementary therapies, individuals who considering herbal therapy

should consult with their doctor to avoid harmful interactions with any of their

current medications.

 

Do not take an herbal remedy instead of the medicine prescribed by your doctor

without discussing it with him/her first.

 

If you are pregnant or breast-feeding it is even more important to investigate

the action of specific herbs. There are a number of herbs that are

contraindicated for pregnant or lactating women. If in doubt, it is best to just

avoid them all together.

 

In addition to taking herbs to help restore your body, here are some additional

tips to help you experience optimal health.

 

.. Drink lots of pure water. Get plenty of high quality sleep.

 

.. Exercise daily - take a walk, stretch or do yoga.

 

.. Try eating a diet rich in natural foods. Cut down on white and refined sugars,

white flour, dairy products, alcohol, caffeine, fats and foods with additives.

 

.. Increase the amount of raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains and raw nuts in

your diet.

 

Keep in mind, taking supplements is only part of the answer. At times emotional

issues may inhibit our body's ability to heal itself.

 

.. Try to have a positive outlook on life.

 

.. Find ways to relieve stress and release pent-up anger or resentment whenever

possible.

 

.. Become spiritually stronger! It has been scientifically proven that prayer or

meditation have a positive effect on healing.

 

Most importantly, be patient. Don't expect instant changes. Your body didn't get

that way overnight, so give it some time to heal. Building new cells and

restoring the body's valuable supply of chemical elements takes time and a

commitment on your part to get better. Although there IS a point of no return in

tissue damage caused by severe long-term deficiencies, it is surprising to see

how well the body responds to herbal therapies. It has been found that by

combining herbal therapies with dietary and lifestyle improvements, you can work

toward the remission of symptoms and the reversal of the disease process

naturally.

 

 

--

 

Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D., is a Naturopathic Physician, a medical intuitive,

mind/body healer, herbalist and spiritual counselor. She also authored the book

" The Power Within A Psychic Healing Primer " , For more information or to schedule

a session call 972-475-3393 or visit www.soulhealer.com

 

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