Herbs have been used to cure and treat ailments for thousands of years. Although they fell out of favor after pharmaceuticals were invented, in recent times herbal remedies have become popular again due to the affordability and ease of access compared to typical pharmaceuticals.
The intention for herbalists is to find the root cause of your condition, and develop a treatment option individually designed for each patient. An herbalist will choose herbs based on physical, and mental health as well as the symptoms described by the patient during the consultation.
Before deciding to proceed with an herbal treatment you may have some questions for your herbalist. Below we compiled the top 7 questions you should be asking every herbalist.
Do you Have an Herb for my Particular Condition?
Every person is different, and much like each person, the remedy can be varied. Many conditions can be treated with herbs, in some cases there are many herbs that can treat the same condition. With few exceptions your herbalist should be able to provide the best protocol to alleviate your condition.
Does Herbal Medicine Work?
Of course.
Like previously stated, herbal remedies have been used for thousands of years. Herbs contain naturally occurring chemicals which can work similarly to general pharmaceutical medicine. Herbal medicine, when used while living a healthy lifestyle can be a powerful and effective treatment.
Why do you Need to Know if I’m Taking any Medication?
During your consultation with your herbalist, they will likely ask about other medicines you may be taking. They’re not trying to be nosy, in fact it’s incredibly important for developing a treatment that won’t work against the medicine you’re taking, or cause extreme side effects. As an example ginkgo biloba which is used to treat circulatory and respiratory conditions can cause severe bleeding when combined with aspirin or warfarin.
How Long Do I Have to Take These Herbs for?
Herbal medicine takes time to show results. Herbal medicine is used to attempt to reach the root of the problem, not just cover up symptoms. Typically 2-3 weeks is needed to begin to see significant improvement. The longer you take herbal medicine the stronger the effects can become in the body.
I Read that this Herb can work, Why not use that?
Although we all have all the world’s information at the palm of our hands, an herbalist will be able to determine whether or not an herb will have the same effect as the example you may have found online. It’s their job to discover the right protocol for your condition. Each body is unique, your herbalist will have to work closely with you especially if you’re currently taking prescribed medication.
I Cook with that, how is it Going to Help my Condition?
Well, why not both?
Just because you use garlic, turmeric and spearmint in cooking doesn’t take away from their natural healing abilities. Garlic is a great seasoning for many dishes, but it’s reported to increase cardiovascular health by regulating blood pressure and lowering blood sugar. Turmeric can reduce inflammation caused by arthritis, improve liver health and be used in curry. Whereas spearmint is great for teas while being used for digestive disorders like gas, diarrhea nausea among others.
Can you Teach me to Make my own Herbal Medicine?
Although it is possible to learn and become an herbalist yourself, good quality herbal medicine needs to be grown and processed carefully to avoid contamination. Even though you may be able to grow some of the herbs yourself in your garden, there may be some plants or trees that aren’t easily available to procure. Others may be simply too difficult to grow making some homemade remedies difficult to know whether or not you’re getting the appropriate dose.
Take the Next Step In Improving Your Health by Contacting SOHMA Integrative Medicine
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Located in Long Beach, CA we help individuals from the surrounding cities.
We look forward to helping you take the next step in your journey to better health.
