In the end, it all comes back to nature. All the medicines we take daily to keep our health on track derive from plants and natural remedies. Often, we forget about our roots and think that prescription medication is the only way to heal our bodies – but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Herbal medicine is an ancient form of functional medicine that dates back thousands of years. Let’s discuss what herbal medicine is, the benefits of using herbal medicine, and common herbal remedies that you can benefit from at home.
What is Herbal Medicine?
Herbal medicine is a naturopathic medicine that utilizes plant materials and botanicals to reduce unwanted ailments – from inflammation to mental wellness. Herbal supplements differ from prescription medications because they are not as processed or as purified. Rather, herbal supplements utilize entire plants or parts for their natural healing powers. Often, herbal supplements come in the form of capsules or tablets. However, supplements can also be made in the form of tinctures, creams, gels, or brewed as teas.
What are the Benefits of Herbal Medicine?
There is a long list of benefits associated with herbal medicines and supplements. Some of these benefits include:
- Cost-effective
- Fewer risks of side effects
- Naturally healing
- No need for prescription
- Effective when taken as directed by a specialist
Talking to your provider about your herbal supplements before taking them is always important. Your provider can tell you which supplement dosage is right for you and your condition.
Common Herbal Remedies
We chose a few of our favorite herbal remedies to discuss with you in this blog. It’s important to note that the list of herbal supplements below is not comprehensive – rather, it’s just a few of thousands of herbal remedies that our patients can benefit from.
Garlic
We may think about pasta or our favorite dinners when it comes to garlic. However, garlic has a wide range of health benefits. Garlic is often used to treat cardiovascular conditions like high cholesterol and triglyceride. Ask your provider if garlic can be taken as a supplement to your cholesterol medication for added benefits.
Ginseng
Ginseng is an overall health and wellness supplement known for its calming yet energizing effects. Many of our patients are familiar with ginseng as an ingredient in their favorite teas or energy drinks. Ginseng is often used as a supplement to help alleviate anxiety and elevate energy levels. It is an excellent way for our patients to put some pep in their step without jitters.
Green Tea
Green tea is more than just a delicious drink. This herbal supplement gained popularity in the 2010s for its metabolic benefits, helping celebrities and influencers manage their weight. That being said, green tea is also a great supplement for lowering cholesterol and fighting fatigue. Ask your provider if green tea will help you in your weight loss journey or journey to a healthier heart.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort has been used for hundreds of years as a remedy for mental health conditions. This herbal supplement is most commonly recommended for those suffering from mild to moderate depression. If you have adverse reactions to traditional antidepressant medications, we encourage you to ask your provider about the benefits of St. Johns Wort.
Natural Healing Center in Mankato, Minnesota
Healing your body doesn’t have to mean taking prescription medications. Instead, consider the healing benefits of natural plant materials using herbal supplements. Talk to your provider about using herbal medicine to reduce your unwanted symptoms or as a supplement to your current course of medications.
If you’re interested in holistic healing near Minneapolis, look no further than Between the Bridges Healing Center! To know more, call our friendly staff at (507) 388-7488. You may also use our convenient online appointment request form to book a consultation with a naturopathic specialist near you.
