Herbalism for Healing

If we can knowingly harm our body, we can very well learn to heal it too. At least that’s what our fore fathers did. And they did not have to look too far. There is reason why nettle leaf plant will always grow near spinach. The former stings and the latter heals. The cures have always been in nature, one is just recognising them once again. Herbalism- the art of making your own herbal medicines, salves, tinctures, teas, powders, pastes, poultics- is making a comeback the world over.

Self-Reliance:

When it comes to health, the world has realised that an integrative approach towards healing and preventive diseases is the way forward. While we need medicines and pills certain clinical cases, there are majority of cases that can be managed by starting a modern apothecary at home. Just like farmers stock their pantries and root cellars, herbalists stock their herbal medicine cabinets with the bounty of plants they love.

Native tribes across world, till date, use traditional methods of healing whenever the body falls out of its natural state of balance. Modern day herbalism is an attempt to go back to and revive the lost science, probably after realising the futility and side effects of exposing oneself to modern healing methods.

Coping Mechanism:

Like most hobbies, herbalism has become a coping tool in the face of growing illnesses. There are herb walks organized around the world and plant identification books are going off the shelves at bookstores. People are signing up for weekend hobby class on learning to grow herbs. The concept of herbalism can be taken to spas, ayurvedic and wellness centres, health cafes and restaurants. That is a space where herbalism is welcome as it fits into the whole concept of natural healing very well. Additionally, it turns out that growing herbs or owning your own herbal garden is a great stress bursting activity. Consider the joy of plucking fresh mint or lemon balm leaves and brewing it into a tea which can be a great way to cope with stress.

Green Medicine:

A lot of chronic diseases today start from inflammation which occurs due to toxic and inflammatory foods. The origin of type II diabetes mellitus, organ failures, cancers, neurological disorders and gut issues can all be tributed to inflammation. Herbs are nature’s potent way to counter inflammation and restore health. Many herbs such as celery, mint, cilantro and curry leaves have the property of chelating toxic heavy metals from the body. Micro green herbs are being successfully used both to prevent and treat cancers.

At one of the integrative Cancer Centres, they grow their own miniature plants of broccoli, celery, mint, kale, parsley, cilantro, radish, lemon grass and wheat grass.Broccoli with the above micro greens contain 10 to 100 times more cancer fighting compounds than the corresponding mature plants. The most important self care is preventive medicine. By relearning our ancestral connection with plants, we can hope to tap into ancient wisdom and healing abilities.

Go Outside:

The best place to start on herbalism journey is outdoors. Go for walks along riversides, in the woods, through fields, and along hedgerows. Learn to identify plants, trees and flowers.

To Begin with:

Basil: is used for stomach spasms, loss of appetite, intestinal gas, kidney conditions, fluid retention, head colds, warts, and worm infections. It is also used to treat snake and insect bites. Women sometimes use basil before and after childbirth to promote blood circulation, and also to start the flow of breast milk.
Ginger: has been known from ancient times that essential oils from aromatic and medicinal plants possess biological activity, antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties.
Mint: is a calming and soothing herb that has been used for thousands of years to aid with upset stomach or indigestion. Mint is thought to increase bile secretion and encourage bile flow, which helps to speed and ease digestion (and which may also support healthy cholesterol levels).
Curry Leaves: Packed with carbohydrates, fiber, calcium, phosphorous, irons and vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin E, curry leaves help your heart function better, fights infections and can enliven the hair and skin with vitality.
Cinnamon: has been used as a medicine in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries. Known for its benefits linked to digestion and gastrointestinal complaints, cinnamon has long been used as a home remedy for heartburn, indigestion, and nausea.
Jeera: Being an excellent source of iron, it aids in digestion, boosts the immune system and has anti-carcinogenic properties. Black cumin seeds contain about 100 chemical compounds including vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, minerals and fatty acids. They are known for their healing qualities.
Chamomile: The tea drinker favourite has been shown to organically support calm, digestion, improve skin and thanks to its potent levels of flavonoids, support heart health. For the most powerful dose, look for extracts and dry powders of chamomile flowers.
Aloevera: holds water, electrolytes and deeply penetrating healing compounds, found in hot, arid regions. It thrives in heat and responds to the sun, from where it gets its healing energy. A plant that is good for every part of the body, skin, hair, internal consumption.
Calendula: has a lot of healing energy, especially for topical application. Can also be used in jams and honeys and syrups, adding a punch of flavour and antioxidant property. Safe for children and all age groups.
Rosemary: for those who tend to get headaches or need a midday pick me up, try five drops of rosemary tincture in a glass of water. The herb can support the nervous system.