Weeds & Seeds Swap

I have used herbs medicinally for many years, and thought you might enjoy the following information that I’ve shared with people in the past.

WHAT ARE HERBS?

Herbs are plants, the highest quality food known to man. They contain vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and phytonutrients that do not fall into the category of vitamin, mineral, etc. All of these are contained in the herb in natural balance and harmony.

WHY USE HERBS?

I believe that our Creator put herbs on the earth as foods with the ability to maintain and restore our health. Herbs seem to have the ability to get to the cause of health problems, not just symptoms. Herbs are whole and balanced, and they provide nutrition for our body to become whole and balanced.

ARE THERE BAD SIDE EFFECTS WITH USING HERBS?

Generally, no, but do keep in mind that anyone can be allergic to anything, and I’m speaking about herbs that are known to be safe, and have been used medicinally for hundreds of years. You need to know your herbs! Some people experience cleansing actions in the body when first using herbs (such as nausea, diarrhea, headaches, etc.). Your health care provider or herbalist should be able to help you determine whether this is a natural process or allergic reaction. It is this detoxifying process that helps bring the body into a state of health. When toxins (poisons) that have been stored in the body are released, temporary (2-5 days – occasionally more) discomfort may be experienced. Be glad when you have these feelings because it means you are ridding your body of harmful toxins.

DO I TREAT HERBS LIKE DRUGS?

Herbs are foods, not drugs. Many herbs can be taken in large quantities without harmful side effects. Generally, mixing herbs (that are dried and/or in their natural state, not concentrated herbs, etc.) is no more harmful than mixing any other food. It is suggested that chemical drugs be taken 1-2 hours before or after your herbs, so that the chemicals will not harm the effect of the herbs, and the cleansing affect of some herbs will not clean out any needed drugs. Pregnant and nursing women should be cautious with herbs. There are many good books about herb use during pregnancy and nursing, or speak to someone knowledgeable in the use of herbs….I’d be happy to help.

HOW MANY HERBS SHOULD I TAKE AND HOW LONG?

When using a new herb, begin with a suggested dosage and observe how your body reacts to it. If you do not receive the desired result, increase or decrease the dosage accordingly, or discuss with someone knowledgeable in the use of herbs. When herbs are used for restoring health, suggested amounts may be more than that needed for maintaining health. Depending upon the condition and the severity of it, approximately 3 months of consistent use is required before the body begins to heal itself. I’ve heard some suggest then adding one month for every year you have had the illness as a rule of thumb for how long it will take you to restore health.

HOW SOON SHOULD I GET RESULTS?

It’s impossible to give an exact answer. There are many variables involved, such as the severity of the problem, the health of a person’s assimilation and digestive system, the number of herbs taken, the stress a person is under, and so on. However, someone with problems like constipation, insomnia, or blood sugar imbalance will often get excellent results within a day, while someone with poor eyesight or joint pain may not feel any difference for weeks or more.

CAN I QUIT TAKING MY CHEMICAL DRUGS?

Herbs are a slow, safe way to build and maintain health. Don’t ever quit taking drugs you’re dependent on. Many people have gradually decreased drug dosage and frequency with the use of herbs. Always consult with the physician who prescribed the drug(s). Remember many physicians are still not comfortable with the use of herbs, though this is changing as years go by, so do not be surprised if they discourage their use. However, it is important for them to know that you are using herbs if they should ask. Our hope is that with use of nutrition and herbs, you and your doctor will notice enough improvement to see that the chemical drugs are no longer needed, or that dosage can be gradually decreased.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TAKE HERBS?

Most people take them 30 minutes before meals so the water or juice they are taken with won’t dilute digestive juices needed to digest meals. Others on a busy schedule take them with breakfast and dinner. Appetite suppressants and blood sugar balancers are best taken 15-30 minutes before the problem hits. Colon cleansing herbs and acidophilus are taken by many at bedtime. Herbs that help insomnia are generally taken 1/2 hour before bedtime.

DON’T FORGET to take your supplements with plenty pure water.

Disclaimer: None of the information provided should be used to diagnose or treat disease. You are responsible for what you chose to do with the information provided, and the outcome.