Natural Herbal Therapies:
Healing From Nature Using
Types Of Alternative Medicine

Most natural herbal therapies used in many of the types of alternative medicine do originate from a plant with very few exceptions. Currently there is about 2000 different herbal preparations that can be used for their medicinal effects. Remember though, many herbs are also used as a food product, whether they are a spice or seasoning. So, generally the method of preparation will be determined whether it will be a medicinal remedy or is it just going to be part of your tonight's dinner..

Dispensing Of Natural Herbal Therapies

• Dedoction- This method yields the strongest preparation of quality but it is often very unpalatable to most people.

• Infusion- This method is common to most westernized medicine. It is prepared by adding the dried flower or leaf to boiling water and steeping for 5-10 minutes. Many herbs can not be prepared this way though to achieve maximum effectiveness.

• Draft- A draft requires the use of a very good quality herb grinder. Very few people have the equipment necessary to get the correct texture needed for this preparation method. If you prefer this method, buy your herbs pre-ground down into a very fine powder, cook in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, strain and then drink.

• Tincture- A tincture is a combination of dried herbs which is added to an alcoholic base and then steeped for a certain length of time (depending on the herb being used). Although this method is easy, many people are uncomfortable drinking them because of the alcoholic base.

• Powder Concentrate- This is the easiest way to prepare a dosage but the strength of a dose can vary widely from company to company because of current manufacturing processes. To use, just add water, mix and drink.

• Pills and Capsules- This is rapidly gaining in popularity because of its ease of use with no preparation required. Quality though can be variable so be careful and buy from only a reputable source.

Safe Use Of Essential Oils

• All essential oils need to be diluted before use (unless directed by a licensed practitioner)

• Apply diluted oils (dilute in a gel or cream base) to a small patch of skin on your wrist. Wait one hour. If irritation is showing, dilute the oil again by another 50% and do the patch skin test on the other wrist. Check again in one hour.

• If irritation on the wrist does occur, bathe the affected area in cold water.

• Oils should be stored in dark bottles out of all light to maintain freshness and potency.

Natural herbal therapies are often used as an at home care program for the following reasons:

• To strengthen the immune system

• Anticatarrhals(help to eliminate mucous)

• Astringent- eases inflamed tissues

• Anti-inflammatory - to reduce inflammation, swelling or infection

For extreme conditions, always consult a practicing physician of herbal therapy if you do not seem to be having any reduction in the severity of your symptoms. Education and guidance is needed to find out why and how your current program is not achieving the desired results.

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