Can herbs replace your medicine cabinet?

Have you ever felt like you're taking so many medicines and pills that you just can't think straight? Do you wonder if there's an alternative to drugging yourself up with pain killers? Well, I’m here to say that there just might be! Though herbal medicine definitely isn’t for everyone, it’s definitely worth it to do some research and see if there’s something that might fit your needs. In this article, I will give you some information and examples that could help you on your journey to switching to herbal medicine.

Where do I even start?

This was my exact question when I heard about herbal medicine and wanted to do some more research. The best way to find what might help is to go to a local organic whole foods store. A lot of these places sell supplements that are completely natural and organic and the workers tend to know a ton about all of these herbs and how they can help. But, if you’re antisocial like I am, it can be really scary to go somewhere and just ask questions. Luckily we have the power of the internet and it can be super resourceful when learning these things.

The best way to find what you’re looking for is to google your ailment with “herbal medicine” after it. Though that may sound easy, you need to find trusted sites for herbal medicine because it will be something you’re ingesting or using topically. I always use EDU sites for my research since their information comes straight from the lab and always has the best up to date information. Remember not to see the first herb and just go buy it and take it. Take plenty of time to research this herb and know its possible side effects before taking it.

What kinds of ailments can herbal medicine treat?

Since herbal medicine is so diverse and there are many ways to treat ailments with it, there is no limit to what it can treat! I have found herbs for mental illness, depression, pain, rash, acne, diabetes, and allergic reactions. There are so many more but those are the main ones I see consistently. It’s important to know what you’re looking for and more importantly, what you’re not looking for. You need to do research into the side effects and see if you have other ailments that might affect this herb treating you how you want it to and how you are intending to use it.

Are all herbs in pill form?

No! Though there are supplements you can take that are in capsule or tablet form, not all herbs have to be taken in pill form. This is another reason herbal medicine is so diverse. There are tinctures, salves, creams, smokables, pills, and more! If you aren't comfortable taking a pill, you might be able to get this herb in a dried form and smoke it in a pipe. Instead of taking ibuprofen, you can use a CBD cream on the affected area and the pain will significantly go down.

Is herbal medicine safe?

In most cases, yes. The main reason people stop relying on herbal medicine is because they are allergic to the herb. There are very few herbs that have bad effects on large groups of people. If there is a bad side effect that can hurt a good percentage of people, it’s due to another underlying illness.

Takeaway

All in all, herbal medicine is a great alternative to modern pharmacology. There are many great herbs out there that could exponentially help you. With the right research and motivation, you could most definitely find something to help you!

Psst! If you are looking for a great herbal medicine apothecary, check out my business on Instagram @thatsthespirit_apothecary for more info and updates!