Herbal Therapy

People are used to using herbal treatments such as chamomile tea when they can’t sleep, Echinacea to help fight off a cold, or Aloe Vera on burns. Herbs have been used throughout human history though, and during all that time we have found treatments for almost every problem a person can have. This article will give some examples of specific conditions that you might not realize you can use herbs for.

Stress/Anxiety

There are a number of herbal treatments which can help treat stress and anxiety. Herbs such as Hawthorne berries, Chamomile, Ginseng, can help reduce these things. Some, like Kava Kava, Valerian, or Passion flower, can have significant side effects, so it is a good idea to consult your doctor before taking them. Herbs used in aromatherapies can also help you relax. Taking various vitamins can also be helpful; some studies have shown that stress and anxiety can in part stem from not getting all the vitamins that one needs.

Allergies

There are a number of herbs which can be effective in treating allergies. One which has recently had some success in scientific trials is Butterbur. Some studies have found it to be as effective as the prescription drug Allegra, but without causing as much drowsiness, which is a common side effect of antihistamine drugs. Its long term use has not been studied, and it may cause some side effects, so talk to your doctor before using it. For asthma, herbs like Tylophora indica (Indian ipecac), Boswellia serrata, and saiboku-to have also been found to be helpful. Taking herbal supplements can also be more complicated for people with allergies, however, as some supplements may contain pollens which can trigger an allergic reaction.

Wound Healing

A number of herbs have been found to be helpful in regards to wound healing; healing cuts, scrapes, bruises, ulcers, and general situations when something in the body need to be repaired. Herbs like plantain, Gotu Kola, St. John’s Wort, Comfrey, Bladderwrack, or Horsetail can be effective in speeding up wound healing. Some of these herbs are taken orally, to boost the body’s healing systems in general, while others are ointments to be applied directly to the wound. And Aloe Vera, as mentioned above, can be effective in treating burns. Also, herbs like Agrimony, Yarrow, Witch Hazel, or Bilberry can be effective ways to treat nose bleeds.

Whatever your condition, there are probably herbal remedies which can be helpful in treating it. It is a good idea to approach new herbs with caution, however, as they may not be well tested, and could have potential side effects. Talk to your doctor, and pay attention to what your body tells you when you use it. Used properly, herbal remedies can be a healthy, naturally way of healing.