Herbalists

Email this page to a friend

Want news about Herbalists and more e-mailed to you? Click here for free email alerts

Prescription for Herbal Healing: An Easy-to-Use A-Z Reference to Hundreds of Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies Phyllis A. Balch, CNC See book keywords and concepts

Herbalists recognize its ability to prevent surging and sinking blood-sugar levels, detoxify the liver, and act against cancer. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), burdock root is used in combination with other herbs to treat sore throats, tonsillitis, colds, and measles. Benefits of burdock for specific health conditions include the following: • Arthritis, gout, and sciatica. Consistent use of the tea (made from the root or seeds) eases arthritis, gout, and sciatica by reducing the swelling around joints and helping to rid the body of calcified deposits. • Boils, dandruff, and eczema.

Japanese herbalists use burdock seed, which kills Streptococcus bacteria and many disease-causing fungi that infect cracked skin. Burdock root oil extract (Bur oil) has traditionally been popular in Europe as a scalp treatment applied to improve hair strength, shine, and body, and to combat hair loss. It has been used to ease dandruff and scalp itching. Modern studies indicate that burdock root oil extract is rich in phytosterols and essential fatty acid required for healthy scalp and natural hair growth. • Cancer.

However, herbalists believe that the whole herb may be able to produce equivalent benefits with fewer side effects. It has been reported that drinking a tea made from red or purple pau d'arco can help to combat infection, build up immunity, strengthen cells, and reduce pain and inflammation. Many people with cancer who have used the tea also received medical treatment. Some have reported that the tea appeared to increase effectiveness of chemotherapy while decreasing negative side effects of the chemotherapy treatments. • Diabetes. Pau d'arco prevents spillover of glucose into the urine.

The Doctors Book of Home Remedies II: Over 1,200 New Doctor-Tested Tips and Techniques Anyone Can Use to Heal Hundreds of Everyday Health Problems the Editors of PREVENTION See book keywords and concepts

Because it has established antiviral activity, herbalists today often prescribe it topically for warts. To make your own wart-be-gone oil, put a handful of fresh arbor vitae greens in a slow cooker. Add two 1-inch pieces of bloodroot. Cover the herbs with 2 cups of olive oil and simmer on low heat overnight. "This takes all the essential oils out," says Wingo. Let it cool completely, then strain it into a container. You can use the oil directly on the wart, she explains, or mix it with coconut oil or beeswax to make a salve. Salves last longer and keep better, says Gayle Eversole, Ph.D.

You need to find out what's causing your vertigo before you can determine whether herbs can help alleviate it, says Anne Mclntyre, a member of Britain's National Institute of Medical herbalists and co-owner of the Midsummer Cottage Clinic in Oxfordshire, England. Once you know what's causing the room to spin, herbs can help by clearing up congestion, increasing blood flow, fighting viral infections, and soothing the inflammation that may be affecting your balance.

Germany's Commission E, which evaluates herbs for safety and effectiveness, has endorsed ginkgo as a treatment for vertigo and dizziness, and it's a popular choice with European herbalists. Rosemary and wood betony also stimulate blood flow to the head, says Mclntyre, and cramp bark relaxes the arteries, therefore aiding blood flow as well. Using a child's medicine dropper, measure 25 milliliters of each tincture into an amber bottle, says Mclntyre. You can continue taking this for as long as the problem persists. Ginger and Rosemary Massage your neck twice a day with a soothing oil.

The Encyclopedia of Edible Plants of North America Francois Couplan, Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts

Matricaria (B 1) Name given by herbalists to plants of medicinal value, from the Latin "mater" or "matrix." Throughout. Both native and species introduced from Eurasia. A few Eurasian species are sometimes planted for ornament. M. chamomilla (= Chamomilla recutita), German chamomile - originally from Eurasia - was formerly much cultivated in the medicinal garden and is naturalized throughout North America. The plant, especially the flower heads, is aromatic and can be used as a seasoning. It makes a more pleasant tea than Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis).

The Healing Power of Herbs: The Enlightened Person's Guide to the Wonders of Medicinal Plants Michael T. Murray, N.D. See book keywords and concepts

Despite a long history of use by the Chinese herbalists (references date back to 2000 B.C.), the Russians have their own history of Siberian ginseng and even go so far as to say, "Eleutherococcus was not known in Oriental folk medicine."1 The Russian history of Siberian ginseng begins in 1855 when a pair of Russian scientists, C. I. Maximovich and L. Shrenk, traveled from St. Petersburg (now Leningrad) to the Ussuri region of Russia on the Amur river.

History and folk use While many individuals may consider the common dandelion an unwanted weed, herbalists revere this valuable herb. Generally regarded as a liver remedy, dandelion has a long history of folk use. In Europe, dandelion was used in the treatment of fevers, boils, eye problems, diarrhea, fluid retention, liver congestion, heartburn, and various skin problems. In China, dandelion has been used to treat breast problems (cancer, inflammation, lack of milk flow, etc.), liver diseases, appendicitis, and digestive ailments.

Prescription for Herbal Healing: An Easy-to-Use A-Z Reference to Hundreds of Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies Phyllis A. Balch, CNC See book keywords and concepts

Ayurvedic herbalists prescribed churnas, herbs held together by sugar and myrrh, a method of making medicines still used in ayurveda today. In modern times, other convenient and healthful forms of herbs are readily available. The most common forms of herbal remedies are listed here. Techniques for making herbal remedies at home are described in Part Three. Capsules Capsules consist of a two-part gelatin shell whose halves are fitted together after the herb is placed inside. In addition to gelatin, the capsule shell may contain glycerin or another softening agent and water.

New Choices in Natural Healing: Over 1,800 of the Best Self-Help Remedies from the World of Alternative Medicine Bill Gottlieb See book keywords and concepts

Box 459 Nevada City, CA 95959 1-800-548-0075 The American herbalists Guild P.O. Box 1683 Soquel, CA 95073 Directory of herbal education. Herb Research Foundation 1007 Pearl St., #200 F Boulder, CO 80302 General information on herbs. Sources for Herbal Remedies Capitol Drugs, Inc. 4454 Van Nuys Blvd. Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 1-800-858-8833 Herbs, homeopathic remedies, nutritional supplements, kits, educational services, Bach flower remedies. Capitol Drugs, Inc. 8578 Santa Monica Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90069 1-800-858-8833 Herbs, homeopathic remedies, supplements, books.

Healing with Plants in the American and Mexican West Margarita Artschwager Kay See book keywords and concepts

Recently, researchers have interviewed herbalists in Baja California Norte and elderly informants at the southernmost part of Baja California Sur regarding medicinal plants and collections in the Municipio de los Cabos and part of the Municipio de la Paz.34 Unlike most other native groups reported herein, who are Uto-Aztecans, the Paipai are Yuman-speaking. They live in the northernmost part of Baja California Norte in an upland desert area characterized by creosote bush, juniper, manzanita, prickly pear, cholla, and agave.

Dr. Cass Ingram's Lifesaving Cures Dr. Cass Ingram See book keywords and concepts

African/Asian herbalists use it to purge the bowel of worms, especially in children. It is also relied upon for reversing gas, stomach ache, and intestinal cramps. In India it is taken extensively to enhance breast milk formation and is perhaps the most effective herb known for this purpose. I have personally found it effective for curtailing the devastating symptoms of the flu. Modern research confirms black seed's significant therapeutic properties. Egyptian physicians determined that black seed reversed asthma better than common medications.

Today, herbalists use cilantro/coriander for reversing nausea, diarrhea in children, intestinal cramps, stomachache, and hemorrhoids. It is also used for nerve disorders, including migraines, neuralgia, liver disorders, heart disease, and stress syndromes. The latest research edifies its importance for liver function, particularly coriander. This spice greatly enhances the liver's ability to metabolize cholesterol, aiding in bile synthesis and reducing blood cholesterol levels.

Today, herbalists use myrtle for asthma, sinusitis, chronic cough, lung congestion, skin wounds, vaginitis, bladder infections, hemorrhoids, and sore throat. Rub it into the scalp to combat itching and dandruff. Perhaps myrtle's greatest use is in the healing of skin. It is an invigorating tonic for normal skin as well as for aging skin. Yet, it is also invaluable for emergencies such as wounds, burns, abrasions, cuts, and scratches. It is specifically acknowledged for inducing the healing of damaged skin and mucous membranes. Apply it to virtually any skin wound or lesion.

It exerts tremendous calming action upon the nerves. herbalists currently rely upon it for anxiety, nervousness, agitation. They even massage it into the skin to relieve muscle tension and pain. Furthermore, it is used for reversing depression and apathy, because of its ability to boost mood and stimulate the mind. Sage is an invaluable mind activator. Sage is especially valuable as a hormone tonic. It gives great strength to the adrenal glands, which are responsible for controlling energy, the ability to fight stress, and the resistance to disease.

It is also high in essential oil, which has been a favorite remedy of herbalists for hundreds of years. The essential oil was famous in Medieval times for its wound healing properties. Unprocessed St. John's wort that is rich in flavonoids is a reliable natural remedy for defeating the mental stress associated with failure to cope or severe psychic pressure. It is also a dependable cure for apathy, grief, and depression. The key to achieving significant results is to select a St. John's wort product high in naturally occurring flavonoids.

Intelligent Medicine: A Guide to Optimizing Health and Preventing Illness for the Baby-Boomer Generation Ronald L. Hoffman, M.D. See book keywords and concepts

You may know dandelion as a common weed, but herbalists know it as an important cure-all. Its official name comes from the Greek taraxos (disorder) and akos (remedy). Dandelion has long been used as a liver remedy as well as a general blood purifier. It is extremely high in vitamins, minerals, and beta-carotene (dandelion has 14,000 International Units of vitamin A per 100 grams, compared with 11,000 International Units for carrots). Studies show that dandelion increases the flow of bile and relieves liver congestion. Milk thistie (Silybum marianum).

Manifesto for a New Medicine: Your Guide to Healing Partnerships and the Wise Use of Alternative Therapies James S. Gordon, M.D. See book keywords and concepts

Saint-John's-wort really does have the antidepressant qualities that herbalists have long attributed to it. Ginseng root is a good stimulant, an antidote to the effects of stress, and an immune enhancer. Echinacea, a common Western herb that many people are now using to prevent and treat the flu, has been demonstrated to have both immune-stimulating and antiviral properties. Saw palmetto berries seem to be just as effective as prescription drugs in reducing enlarged prostate glands, but cost far less.

Nevertheless, they've been used by healers and herbalists for centuries. Among them are watermelon for poor kidney function and kidney stones; boiled onions for chronic bronchitis; and hot water, lemon juice, cayenne pepper, and maple syrup as a "liver cleanser." I've used these three and many more, including the memorable but uncomfortable pineapple fast, with patients like David Donne, for more than fifteen years.

Breast Cancer? Breath Health! The Wise Woman Way Susun S. Weed See book keywords and concepts

Anti-inflammatory drugs are used in orthodox medicine; herbalists use willow or wintergreen. Osha and poke roots are my favorite anti-inflammatories; they're both anti-cancer and they don't inhibit healing, as do many anti-inflammatories. I use 3 doses of 5 drops of osha tincture or 3 doses of 1 drop of poke tincture, hourly, for one hour before and two hours after each treatment. • Lung protection: Comfrey leaf infusion. See page 221. • Nausea, vomiting: Tiny spoonfuls of plain yogurt, slippery elm lozenges (page 301), smoke of dried cannabis flowers. See also pages 231-234.

Manifesto for a New Medicine: Your Guide to Healing Partnerships and the Wise Use of Alternative Therapies James S. Gordon, M.D. See book keywords and concepts

This is true, but it is also true, according to the herbalists I read, that by extracting them, we lose as much as we gain. Whole plants contain many "active ingredients," not just the single one that chemists isolate. When we use whole plants as medicines, these substances act in concert, contributing to one another's effectiveness, counteracting each other's toxic properties, and decreasing the side effects that the single, isolated active ingredient produces.

Breast Cancer? Breath Health! The Wise Woman Way Susun S. Weed See book keywords and concepts

To increase your sense of security when contemplating the use of a potentially poisonous herb, consult other herbal references and several experienced herbalists. Potentially poisonous herbs in Breast Cancer?Breast Health! include: arbor vitae, arnica, autumn crocus root, belladonna, blood-root, celandine, chaparral, comfrey root (not leaf), foxglove, goldenseal root, henbane, iris root, Jimson weed, lobelia, May apple (American mandrake) root, mistletoe, poke, poison hemlock, stillingia root, turkey corn root, wild cucumber root. Green blessings.

New Choices in Natural Healing: Over 1,800 of the Best Self-Help Remedies from the World of Alternative Medicine Bill Gottlieb See book keywords and concepts

Tyler, Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest trees on the planet, and for thousands of years, Chinese herbalists have used its leaves—which increase blood flow to the brain and to other parts of the body—to treat cerebral and cardiovascular problems. Dr. Tyler recommends ginkgo in supplement form, which you can find in most health food stores, and says to follow dosage recommendations on the label. He says you will need to take ginkgo for one to three months before you see any improvement in memory loss. !¦¦¦• Homeopathy Try one of the following 12C remedies twice daily, says Chris Meletis, N.

Herbal Therapy Peppermint is what herbalists call an antispasmodic, and it may help alleviate the bowel spasms that are often part of IBS, says Barre, Vermont, herbalist Rosemary Gladstar, author of Herbal Healing for Women and other books about herbs. She recommends peppermint oil, available in most health food stores. She says to take two or three drops of the oil, diluted in lA cup of warm water, three or four times a day. hill Relaxation and Meditation Progressive relaxation may reduce anxiety and help subdue the symptoms of IBS, says Edward B. Blanchard, Ph.D.

A few other anti-cough herbs are what herbalists call expectorants—that is, the herbs thin the cough-causing mucus, so you can expectorate (spit, to us nonherbahsts) it out any way you choose. Horehound is probably the most effective and best tasting of these herbs, according to Dr. Tyler, and many people use horehound hard candies as cough lozenges. You can also find horehound tea bags in most health food stores. ¦ill Homeopathy Go for a combination remedy called Chestal, suggests Mitchell Fleisher, M.D., a family practitioner and homeopath in Colleen, Virginia.

The first "herbalists" probably watched the animals, noticing which plants the beasts grazed on when they weren't feeling well. They tried those plants themselves. They also discovered by trial and error which plants helped and which harmed. When someone felt better after eating certain flowers, others would try them. If someone broke out in a rash after chewing certain roots, everyone would stay away from them. Eventually, primitive people found plants that helped them sleep, plants that helped them stay awake, plants that cured stomachaches and plants that soothed sunburned skin.

Physician: Medicine and the Unsuspected Battle for Human Freedom Richard Leviton See book keywords and concepts

The idea was also to keep homeopaths, naturopaths, herbalists, and chiropractors out of the marketplace by regulating the licensing of physicians. The practical result is that there is no free and open competition in the American medical marketplace. You have the right to choose your physician, provided it is an allopathic M.D., but you cannot, in most cases, choose between an M.D. and a naturopath and expect to get insurance reimbursement.

The empiric view is upheld today by the homeopaths, naturopaths, herbalists, Ayurvedics—by an eclectic field of what we understand to be holistic, complementary, alternative, or natural medicine. The assumptions of today's allopaths, in contrast, derive from the rationalist school, which began under the aegis of rigorous, if abstract, Aristotelian logic. The rationalist approach was later formulated by the Greek physician Galen (circa 129 A.D.), "one of the most influential intellectuals the world has ever produced," admits Coulter.

Reclaiming Our Health: Exploding the Medical Myth and Embracing the True Source of Healing John Robbins See book keywords and concepts

In Japanese cancer centers and hospitals, acupuncturists and herbalists practice right alongside physicians trained in Western approaches, and they generally work quite happily together to help patients. All this stands in marked contrast to the United States, where orthodox medicine has unrelentingly opposed the practice of alternatives, resulting in flagrant antagonism between conventional and unconventional methods. In other countries the alternative and orthodox approaches may occasionally compete, but they typically proceed in a spirit of cooperation, not conflict.

page 8 of 19 | Next ->

FAIR USE NOTICE: The research quoted here is provided under the protection of Fair Use provisions and published by the 501(c)3 non-profit Consumer Wellness Center for the purposes of public comment and education. Authors / publishers may submit books for consideration of inclusion here.

TERMS OF USE: Read full terms of use. Citations of text from NaturalPedia must include: 1) Full credit to the original author and book title. 2) Secondary credit to the Natural News Naturalpedia as a research resource and a link to www.NaturalNews.com/np/index.html

This unique compilation of research is copyright (c) 2008 by the non-profit Consumer Wellness Center.

ABOUT THE CREATOR OF NATURALPEDIA: Mike Adams, the creator of this NaturalNews Naturalpedia, is the editor of NaturalNews.com, the internet's top natural health news site, creator of the Honest Food Guide (www.HonestFoodGuide.org), a free downloadable consumer food guide based on natural health principles, author of Grocery Warning, The 7 Laws of Nutrition, Natural Health Solutions, and many other books available at www.TruthPublishing.com, creator of the earth-friendly EcoLEDs company (www.EcoLEDs.com) that manufactures energy-efficient LED lighting products, founder of Arial Software (www.ArialSoftware.com), a permission e-mail technology company, creator of the CounterThink Cartoon series (www.NaturalNews.com/index-cartoons.html) and author of over 1,500 articles, interviews, special reports and reference guides available at www.NaturalNews.com. Adams' personal philosophy and health statistics are available at www.HealthRanger.org.