Herbal medicine is the oldest form of healthcare
known to mankind. Herbs have been used by all cultures throughout
history, including the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans as well as
in China, India and the Western World. It was an integral part of the
development of modern civilization.
Herbal medicine is the basis of modern pharmaceutically
synthesised drugs. With drugs, one active ingredient is isolated, often
chemically altered, and aimed at suppressing the symptoms of specific
illnesses. Herbs, as whole plants however, have a different healing
action. They are excellent tonics that nourish and restore damaged
tissues and organs and strengthen the body's recuperative capacity as a
whole.
The practice of Herbal Medicine can be broadly
classified into various basic systems. How herbal medicine is
administered depends on each system's philosophical framework:
· Traditional Chinese Herbalism (part of Traditional Oriental Medicine) - aims at harmonizing the body's Yin and Yang
· Ayurvedic Herbalism (part of Ayurveda): - aims at rebalancing the 3 doshas in a person's constitution
· Western Herbalism (which originally came from Greece
and Rome to Europe and then spread to North and South America) - aims
at restoring the body's cellular biochemistry.
Ultimately all of the approaches above aim at
encouraging the body's natural tendency to strive for health, aiding
elimination, increasing resistance and restoring balance and vitality.
Herbal or botanical products can be prepared as
tinctures, capsules, liquid or solid extracts, tablets, lozenges, teas,
doecoctions, poultices, vapour treatments, compresses, bark products or
as local topical applications.
· Conditions that can be effectively treated using herbal remedies include:
· Skin disorders
· Digestive problems
· Hormone imbalance
· Circulatory problems
· Stress, anxiety and mild depression
· Allergies such as asthma and hay fever.
Specifically customised herbal formulas are mixed in
the dispensary by Desana's Herbalists immediately after a consultation
with clients. Clients can then re-order formulas from the dispensary as
prescribed by their Herbalist.
If you are considering taking
herbal medicine, always consult your Herbalist or general practitioner
first. It is not advisable to self-medicate by purchasing ready-made
herbal medicines over the counter. Whilst there is usually no problems
with taking herbal remedies with other medications, there are some
important exceptions and some herbs should be avoided during pregnancy.
Desana's Herbalists are highly trained and will prescribe the right herbs at the right doses for your specific condition.
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