Herbs
Botanical medicine, commonly known as herbs, was once an honored profession. It was also the medicine used by indigenous people, early settlers, and everyone in the country prior to our pharmaceutical age. Herbalism was the foundation for “modern” medicine, botany, pharmacy, perfumery, and chemistry.
By definition, an herb is a drug as it enters the body and alters body function. Coffee is therefore also a drug. Herbs are complex as they have medicinal properties but they also supply vitamins, minerals, and oils. Some herbs are aromatic, having a smell that can also have therapeutic properties. Many whole herbs have balance from the concept of their content. An example is the dandelion. This common lawn “weed” is completely edible. Its root is commonly used in liver detoxification. Dandelion is a know diuretic that also is high in potassium. Potassium is a common mineral that is lost with a diuretic. So if you were given a pharmaceutical diuretic, your physician might also prescribe a potassium supplement.
Herbal medicines can be made from whole plants, or parts of the plant such as; flowers, leaves, fruits, and/or roots. The pharmaceutical approach relies on identifying the active constituent, extracting it and then trying to duplicate is through synthetic means. This approach is a violation of traditional herbalism as is the example of the dandelion. Traditional herbs were used as teas that are still common in other countries. This approach may be considered by some as weak medicine, but I can assure you it is quite effective.
We offer bulk herbs by the ounce, single herbal tinctures, combination herbal tinctures, herbal capsules, and teas. When using a tincture or capsule, start with a low dose and work up to the recommended dose. Always buy herbs from a reputable source.
