The worldwide use of herbal medicine

Today there are many types of herbal medicines that have been developed by different cultures from around the world. In Australia, the most common types are traditional Chinese, Ayurvedic, Indigenous and Western (European) herbal medicine. The different types of herbal medicine all have in common that they use medicinal plants, but they vary in which plants they use, how they prepare and apply them and the philosophies behind their approaches to treatment.

Although herbal medicine is classed as ‘alternative’ or ‘complementary’ in most Western countries, it remains the only form of medicine widely available to much of the world’s population.

How does herbal medicine work?

Herbs contain a large number of naturally occurring phyto-chemicals (constituents) that have some type of biological activity. Herbs work in a similar fashion to many pharmaceutical preparations. In fact, some pharmaceutical medicines are still obtained from plants. For example, the malaria medicine quinine is extracted from the bark of the cinchona tree.

Herb can be very effective in the treatment of many conditions, but without the unwanted side effects that are often seen in conventional pharmaceutical treatments. Nevertheless, it should be realised that herbs can be very potent and, if used incorrectly, can cause serious adverse effects.

Some herbs can affect how your body responds to pharmaceutical medications , either decreasing or increasing their effects.

Consult a herbalist

You should always consult a fully trained herbalist before using herbal remedies. Herbalists are trained to know how to mix remedies for specific conditions and symptoms and how much should be taken and for how long. Herbs are chosen to suit each person as well as to treat their disease or condition.

Uses of herbal medicine

Herbal medicine offers treatments for virtually every ailment affecting any body system.

• skin problems such as psoriasis, acne and eczema;
• digestive problems such as peptic ulcer, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome and indigestion and heartburn;
• heart and circulatory conditions such as angina, high blood pressure, varicose veins and ulcers; and
• gynecological disorders such as premenstrual syndrome and menopausal problems.
• arthritis;
• insomnia;
• stress and nervous related conditions;
• headaches and migraine;
• upper respiratory tract infections;
• colds and flu; and
• allergic responses such as hay fever and asthma.

When you see a herbalist you should always mention if you are taking any other medicines, herbs or neutraceuticals . You should also tell your doctor if you are planning to start a course of herbal medicine. You should never stop taking your conventional medicines without consulting both your Naturopath and primary care physician.