Herbal medicines support the natural physiology of the body by enhancing the function of the body’s processes rather than suppressing them. Some herbs increase digestive secretions and motility, while others are known to enhance detoxification enzymes in the liver. Many herbs have been shown to increase white blood cell counts thus improving immunity, and others are known to support the hormonal system and increase resilience to stress. All the while improving one’s health systemically.

Herbal medicine has a long history of use in Western cultures, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Indian Ayruvedic medicine. These systems take into account a broad picture of health considering “the whole person” when prescribing an herbal formula.

Herbs are often used in conjunction with other treatment methods, and/or diet recommendations, to support your constitution or condition.

Home Herbal Medicine Tip!Home Herbal Medicine Tip!Echinacea is popular for treating colds, but isn’t always effective. Try using olive leaf instead. Take 20 – 30 drops of the tincture every 3 – 4 hours at the initial onset of symptoms. Also, 3 – 4 slices of freshly chopped and steeped ginger with a little honey makes a good cold/flu tea. Another effective remedy is oregano oil: 1 – 2 drops 3 – 4 times per day. Many people get sick because they need a break. Give yourself the permission to rest and take a few days off!

There is a massive amount of scientific literature on the healing potential of medicinal herbs. Research has shown herbal medicines to benefit digestive problems, menstrual problems and menopause, anxiety, depression, fatigue, blood pressure problems and more. Even common culinary herbs such as garlic, ginger, and turmeric have strong medicinal properties and can be used therapeutically for conditions such as digestive problems and arthritis.

Some herbs can be safely taken with pharmaceutical drugs, but should be supervised by a health care professional to ensure safety for long term use.

Functional Nutritional Medicine
In addition to using herbs to promote health, targeted nutritional supplementation can also be used. Specific vitamins, minerals, oils, antioxidants and amino acids can be used to improve specific biochemical pathways and enhance nutritional status. Using manual muscle testing (applied kinesiology) along with considering history and lab work, a specific nutritional protocol can be developed. Food sensitivity testing can also be done to assess for potential food reactions.