Because doctors and prescription drugs can be expensive, many people turn to herbs and supplements to prevent illness and stay healthy. Using plants for medicine is not new — it goes back to ancient times — but do they really work? Can herbal supplements be harmful? What are the advantages and disadvantages of herbal medicine? This article looks at the benefits and risks, gives a brief history of traditional practices, and shows how views on herbal medicine have changed over time.
What is herbal medicine?
Herbal medicine is a broad term for medical approaches that use plant-based remedies to treat illness. Here we’ll focus on three main traditions: Chinese herbalism, Western herbalism, and Ayurveda.
In a broad sense, modern medicine also has roots in herbs, since many drugs were originally derived from plants. The main difference is that herbal medicine uses whole plant materials rather than lab-made compounds. Herbal remedies are used for issues like high blood pressure, inflammation, and even erectile dysfunction. Lately, some conventional doctors recommend certain supplements for minor problems instead of strong prescription drugs.
Types of herbal medicine
Three major schools dominate the field: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and Western herbalism. Each has its own view of how the body works and how herbs should be used. While some of the philosophies include symbolic ideas, they all share the belief that plants can help treat illness. Below is a quick look at each approach.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Chinese medicine is rooted in Taoist ideas about living in harmony with nature. Practitioners see the body as an interconnected system: when one organ is out of balance, others are affected. They explain illness in terms of Chi (or Qi), a vital energy that flows through pathways in the body. Blocked or unbalanced Chi can cause sickness.
TCM includes three main practices: acupuncture, tai chi, and Chinese herbal medicine. Acupuncture and tai chi are often used to relieve pain and inflammation, while herbs are used for a wide range of conditions. Other TCM methods include:
– Tuina: a mix of massage and acupuncture techniques
– Moxibustion: burning herbs near the skin to warm specific points
– Acupressure: applying finger pressure to acupuncture points
Common herbs in Chinese medicine include ginkgo biloba, red yeast rice, cinnamon, ginger, ginseng, gotu kola, and astragalus.
How practitioners find Chi imbalances
A TCM practitioner typically checks your pulse, looks at your tongue, and does a physical exam to identify blockages or imbalances. Examples:
– Liver stagnation: symptoms like irritability, anger, indigestion, and a “wiry” pulse suggest liver Chi is blocked.
– Kidney deficiency: hot flashes, dry mouth, forgetfulness, or a “floating” pulse can point to kidney Chi issues.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda is an ancient medical system from India, over 3,000 years old. The word Ayurveda means “knowledge of life.” It’s both a medical system and a way of living. Ayurveda sees health as a balance of mind, body, and spirit and classifies people by types (doshas). Based on your dosha, you’re advised on diet and lifestyle to restore balance.
The three doshas are:
– Vata (air and space): energetic, creative people who do best with warm food and a regular routine.
– Pitta (fire and water): determined, strong-willed types who benefit from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fresh air.
– Kapha (water and earth): sturdy, enduring people who need lots of vegetables, regular exercise, and stimulating activities.
Many people are a mix of doshas. Seeing an Ayurvedic practitioner can help you determine your type.
Common Ayurvedic remedies
Ayurvedic treatments often use spices and plant extracts, such as:
– Fennel seeds and holy basil for acid reflux
– Water, fennel, and ginger for bloating
– Turmeric for inflammation
– Shilajit resin for fatigue, anemia, heart health, and brain function
Popular Ayurvedic “superfoods” include ginger, ashwagandha, amla, turmeric, tulsi, shilajit, and brahmi.
Western Herbalism
Western herbal medicine has roots in ancient Greece and Rome and focuses on using nature to heal. Like TCM and Ayurveda, it emphasizes balance through diet, exercise, rest, and a positive mindset. Western herbalism has been influenced by other traditions but tends to strip away symbolic language and lean more on scientific study. This approach often tries to combine traditional knowledge with modern research.
Pros of herbal medicine
– Affordable: Supplements often cost less than prescription drugs and are easy to buy without insurance or long waits.
– Natural: When sourced properly, herbal supplements come from plants without synthetic additives.
– Fewer side effects: Pure herbal products without fillers may cause fewer side effects than some prescription drugs, when used correctly.
– Growing research: Studies increasingly support certain herbs for specific uses, for example:
– Peppermint: helps digestion and can ease headaches
– Cinnamon: may help blood circulation and blood sugar control
– Chamomile: brings anti-inflammatory benefits and relaxation
– Ginkgo: supports brain health and circulation
– Turmeric: reduces inflammation
– Tea tree oil: antifungal and antibacterial
– Green tea (l-theanine): can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and improve focus
Cons of herbal medicine
– Fake or unsafe products: Supplements from unreliable sources, especially unregulated imports, can contain dangerous additives or useless fillers.
– Drug interactions: Some herbs can make prescription drugs less effective or increase their effects, causing problems like irregular bleeding or blood pressure changes. Always tell your doctor about any supplements you take.
– Allergies: Herbal products may contain allergens. Check ingredients and start slowly, with medical approval, if you’re unsure.
– Dosing challenges: Without strict regulation, dosages on supplements can be misleading. Exact dosing for raw herbs is often hard to determine, so seek guidance from a trusted expert.
Final thoughts
Herbal supplements and natural remedies can be useful, but they come with pros and cons. For many people the benefits outweigh the risks, especially when they know how to choose safe products. Research and expert advice are important when deciding which remedies are worth trying.
Alternative medicine isn’t going away. If you’re curious, talk to your doctor or a qualified health professional before trying over-the-counter remedies, especially if you have a preexisting condition.
Author bio:
Polly Tlg has long been drawn to holistic and alternative healing. For her, Ayurveda and yoga are the best medicines. Deeply intuitive, she believes true healing goes beyond the physical and includes emotional and energetic layers. Polly helps people stay healthy and feel beautiful using natural remedies and believes nature is the best source of human health.