Introduction to Herbs

[LadyHawk]

Herbs are considered food for the body.

Herbs are valuable sources of natural medicine, vitamins and minerals which have a remarkable history, when used in the proper way. Every plant on this earth has a purpose. Look around you, do your research. If you have an ailments then herbs may be another way to find answers. The more research I do on herbs the better appreciation I have for our Great Spirits creations.

Keep in mind that all drugs which are extracted from plants are not used in their natural states. This is why we have so many side effects from prescribed medicines. Every drug has a possible side effect and that is to include herbs. Understanding what the herbs can contribute to your system is important and it takes time to understand. Please take the time to read about what you plan on putting into your system.

Herbs will be introduced but please don't stop here, continue to learn and consult proper individuals who have qualifications on herbs. I'm just here to give suggestions/share what I'm learning. No one should follow blindly old wives tales when it comes to the use of plants in medicine. To fully understand your symptoms and possible cures I recommend you consult a Herbalists or Homepathic physician.

Have fun and remember "science is discovering the wonderful properties of herbs, and their value to mankind. I believe the day will come when herbal remedies will be able to fill all the needs of mankind.

[Manyfeathers]

You are so right LadyHawk. I've been using herbs for over 35 years now. Your post is exactly what I tell people in my classes. Also this:

There are some herbs that are truly toxic to the body and should only be used by an expert, of which I don't claim to be.

But know this, that for every toxic herbal cure, there are many more non-toxic herbs to use. Stick to the non-toxic herbs, they work just as well. I promise.

DO THE RESEARCH!! BUY SOME GOOD HERB BOOKS!!

I must own 50 good herbals from over the years, starting with Back To Eden by Jethro Kloss. His methods are a little outdated though, Today's Herbal Health by Louise Tenney is a good one, and my latest favorite is Rosemary Gladstar's Family Herbal (a beautiful book), and one more, Prescription for Nutritional Healing 3rd edition from Phyllis A. Balch, CNC. This last one covers herbs as well as, vitamins, minerals and food supplements, drug-free remedies. It's very good too.

[Manyfeathers]

A couple of my favorite suppliers of herbs and other stuff:

From THE BEST Herb store in Texas! (my friend owns this place and it's where I shop)

Years to Your Health

Or . . . if you want to join a co-op:

Bulk organic herbs, spices, teas & essential oils -*Frontier Natural Products Co-op