Dimentech's Herbal Info

Care and Digestion of Herbs

Herbs traditionally have been used in many ways, and for many purposes. Descriptions of herbs on my web pages contain traditional uses that have been documented in other writings, both old and new, as being helpful to humans, and in some cases, mention is made of their helpfulness to animals also. This is not a scientific study, but merely a compendium of information, descriptions and properties of each herb.

If you are taking charge of your own health and well being, then this compendium will prove to be a useful tool. Used with care and thoughtfulness, and balanced with a good knowledge of your own body and it's needs, herbs will benefit you with balance, energy, and vitality.

It is highly suggested that you research several sources for more thorough information on any substance you take while trying to reach the goal of optimum health. If you take over the counter or prescription drugs, you should research information on their effects, ingredients, and side effects. Likewise, if you take an herb, in any form, you should research its effects upon the human body, it's noted "precautions", and anti contraindications. In general herbs have far less of these than drugs, but that doesn't mean that all herbs are harmless, or that care should not be taken in quantities consumed.

Please be sure not to abuse the suggested quantity or dosage given for *any* substance, even herbs. Know your body, listen to its messages, and learn to respect it's signals.

Keep in mind that the authors of the various references that this information is taken from were giving their own personal opinion of the herbs and their usefulness. Some herbalists favor some herbs over others, while others are always looking for new herbs for the same use.

There are many ways to use herbs. Use them in your cooking, fresh whenever possible. Make a stovetop potpourri, and fill your home with the aromatic scents of various herbs. Some herbs are very useful in poultices for wounds or sprains.

For the most potent possible consumption of herbs, as well as the quickest way for your body to obtain the beneficial qualities of the herb, obtain them in extract form, preferrably in an alcohol extract. Alcohol is used because it extracts most of the nutrients available in the plant, and makes them more readily digestible by the body. Herbal extracts preserved in glycerine or vinegar may contain bacteria, so more care is needed in storage.

Fresh herbs should be used whenever they are available. Some foods, like Cabbage, lose their nutrients so quickly that there is very little value in storing them for a long period of time. Others retain some of their properties even after being dried and stored for several months. It is generally a good idea to replenish your dried herbs and spices at least once a year.

Disclaimer

Precautions The information provided here is not meant to replace sound medical advice. It is by no means conclusive, and does not guarantee results. It is not meant to take the place of medical treatment, or to be used as a prescription for a remedy of disease.

While herbs are a food, not a drug, they can have an effect on the body as strong as a drug may. It is recommended, especially when using extracts, to always start slow and work up to the recommended dosages. If at any time you feel strange, sick, or "wrong" after consuming some herbs, you should reduce or eliminate the dose. Some ill feeling can be expected when the body first begins detoxification.

Some herbs are very potent, and have been deemed "dangerous" because if they are misused, they could cause damage to the body. Before trying any food or herb that is new to you, please research any information you can get. If you have a serious medical condition or you are pregnant, you should consult a qualified naturopath or homeopathic doctor before making any serious changes to your diet.