4Aug/11Off
How can I really learn about herbal medicine?
I've always seen herbal teas and so on to help some sicknesses, but lately I've been wanting to really learn about things like that and make my own. I want to learn about herbs, what they're good for, how to make certain types of medicine from them (like tea) and so on. Aside from reading internet articles I want to really try and grow my own herbs and so on and so forth, but where do I start? What will I need?
August 4th, 2011 - 08:13
There are simple herbal remedies for a range of common ailments.
But you need to study a bit about the illness, as well.
A lot of Western Medicine is expensive, unnecessary, has side effects. So there is ever stronger support in Western medicine to more natural remedies. It is only commercialism that stands in the way.
Teas can be very good. Eating disorders, colds, coughs, headaches, tiredness, travel sickness, insomnia, blood strengtheners, angina, low libido, general tonics, anti oxidants, assorted aches and pains etc etc
(Try some herbal teas yourself, before you inflict them on your innocent boyfriend!)
To grow your own, you should begin with – a garden!
A book about growing herbs
A reference book or encyclopedia about herbs and herbal medicine – there is an Oxford guide – preferably with pictures too.
And yes, get to the library, the internet. Maybe sign up for a course.
Beware of loonies, India Medicine (Ayurvedic), and other quacks.
Look for TCM (Chinese Traditional Medicine), and some of the tried and tested European products.
There may be some traditional native medicines in your area.
Don’t overdo it (many do)
Be careful – just because some product is good for something, it does not mean you particularly need it! Many problems are a result of lifestyle and attitude (examples are Valium and Prozac, the 2 most popular drugs in USA, that treat – nothing)
My wife is a country doctor.
Added – poor Dave. His local hospital must be bad indeed, if they have no oxygen (air),aspirin (from white willow bark) or morphine (poppy juice)!
August 4th, 2011 - 08:13
the library!
otherwise i am not sure. i too am interested in this..
August 4th, 2011 - 08:13
It’s pretty simple, just go to medical school like anyone else who wants to be a doctor.
You will then have a good education that you can use to ensure you know what you’re talking about. Unfortunately most of the information published about herbs is invented or based on outdated and ancient beliefs that have subsequently been disproved. This is why herbs are not used in hospitals or by doctors because they simply do not have any effect.
August 4th, 2011 - 08:13
Take up courses in pharmacology. Go into research. Avoid herbalists.