Herb Safety

People have been using herbal preparations ever since the dawn of history. Herbal medicine is the oldest form of medicine around and has been used for millennium's. It appears to have passed the test of time because 80% of the world's population still use herbs as their main source of medicinals.

Safety Issues

Just like pharmaceuticals and prescription drugs, herbs can also have side effects. However, they have a far better safety record. When herbal medicines are properly researched and the directions are followed faithfully, the herbs are a much safer option and seem to agree better with the body. 

There are some basic precautions that should be taken when using herbs. Unless you are a trained herbalist or naturopath, seek the advice of a professional that is knowledgeable about  herbs. Follow the instructions you are given. Be extra careful if you are pregnant as most herbs have not been studied in regards to pregnant and nursing moms. There are a few herbs that can be taken by pregnant and nursing women, but in the best interest of the baby to be born always consult a professional. 

There are a few herbs that are definitely poisons, like belladonna and hemlock. If you are picking your herbs out in the wild, be awfully sure you know what you are harvesting, perhaps take an expert along with you. Many plants look alike and it is easy to mistake the herb for a good one when it is not. I seldom wild craft my herbs, I get mine from reputable dealers who know their stuff. 

Here is the link to a website that is an excellent source of information about herbal safety. Go to   http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/dietary-supplements/herbal-information .There are a number of books on the market about herbs that are quite easy for the layperson to read. I like James Duke's book The Green Pharmacy. It is up to date, comprehensive and easy to understand. Many of the remedies are readily available in your kitchen, or garden.

Both my book Ten Healthy Teas and Dr. Duke's book The Green Pharmacy are available at www.amazon.com   Check out my website at www.valerielull.com  My book Ten Healthy Teas makes a great gift item for the holidays. Use all the herbs and spices that go along with the holiday season, and use them safely. Your comments and questions are welcome. 

Valerie Lull

Author

Ten Healthy Teas

Lullval@clearwire.net

Natural Ways to Relieve Pain

I have arthritis in my back and sometimes the pain gets pretty bad. When the pain gets too severe I have to take a pain pill, but for mild to moderate pain there are several herbal remedies that work quite well.

1. Ginger - I like to brew up a cup of Ginger tea, it takes the edge off my arthritis pain. You can use fresh ginger, or some of the commercial ginger teas. To use it fresh, grate about two tablespoons of the fresh root and simmer in water for 20 minutes.As an alternative  I often use Yogi brand ginger tea. You can also use a hot ginger compress externally. Some people find that ginger has a calming effect which also helps.

2. Willow Bark - Willow bark was used by the American Indians. It contains salacin which is what aspirin is made of. Willow can be used in capsule form or a tea can be prepared from the bark. Personally I prefer the capsule. If you have an aspirin allergy it is probably best not to use willow bark.

3. Lavender - Lavender is wonderful for mild to moderate burns. A few drops of  lavender essential oil can be mixed with a little vegetable oil and rubbed into the area where there is pain. Lavender actually works on the nerves so that they transmit less pain. Just remember, essential oils are for external use only. Taking essential oils orally can be deadly. Lavender is also good for scrapes, bumps and bruises.

4. Peppermint - This was my grandmother's remedy for menstrual pain. Peppermint contains menthol which has an anesthetic effect. One common remedy for headaches uses peppermint tincture rubbed into the temples of the head. Peppermint is also good for indigestion discomfort.

5. Red Pepper - Red pepper contains salicylates, which are similar  to salicin, the herbal version of aspirin. Red  pepper also contains capsaicin, which stimulates the body's natural pain killers called endorphins. Capsaicin works as a rub or liniment that is massaged into the skin of the painful area. You can purchase capsaicin creams in your local drugstore. Be sure you wash your hands afterwards, and make double sure you don't get it in your eyes.

Remember to check with your health care provider when using herbal products. Check out my web site at www.valerielull.com .


Valerie Lull, Author
Ten Healthy Teas
Lullval@clearwire.net.