Medicinal Herb Gardening
Image via WikipediaThere are few places that contain more scientific nonsense than in the advertisements for products that contain homeopathic medicinal herb medicines. Claims, almost miracle-like in nature, are made without properly being tested or even proven. Regardless, it is a fact that some herbs have been used to treat countless conditions for thousands of years and medicinal herb gardening has been done since antiquity. The following are some common herbs used for medicinal purposes:
Chamomile
Chamomile is an herb which is made out of the dried flower which goes by the same name. It is frequently used to make a taste and safe tea. The herb is soothing and may be employed as a mild sedative. It has been said that chamomile may lessen inflammation and fever, although this claim has not been proven. Some research suggests that chamomile’s compounds may inhibit some bacteria tied to stomach ulcers; however, results are still inconclusive.
Chamomile has sometimes been touted to be a miracle cure. While most people have no problems with it, a precaution to keep in mind is that some people could have an allergic reaction to the pollen.
Echinacea
A number of the substances found in the perennial, Echinacea, have been thoroughly studied. And while science has yet to entirely validate any of the claims made about it, it is often thought to be an aid to the immune system and has been used in the treatment of upper respiratory problems brought on by colds.
Studies have given evidence that it might lessen the time you are sick and relieve symptoms in the meantime. Others suggest that it makes you less susceptible to frequent illnesses in the first place. It’s hard to say conclusively whether these claims are true, since a lot of complex factors decide whether you catch a cold. Whether it works or not, the herb is at least safe - it can’t hurt as a placebo.
People who have diabetes should absolutely speak to their physician before taking Echinacea.
Feverfew
Feverfew has been said to treat inflammation and migraine headaches and is a common herb in medicinal herb gardening. Because it reduces the effectiveness of clotting in the blood, this may be true. It contains the ingredients parthenolide and glycosides.
However, its use could result is some possible side effects. Mouth ulcers and skin inflammation have been known to occur. It has also been known to raise heart rate as well as reducing the body’s ability to absorb iron and interacting with migraine medications.
Ginseng
Ginseng is another medicinal herb. This ancient herb dates back to use in China and India thousands of years ago. Studies show that it may lower blood sugar and increase HDL (good cholesterol) levels.
While there is no danger in consuming this herb, there has been no conclusive proof that it will truly enhance sexual performance. Use of the herb ginseng comes with a few warnings. It has been shown to induce asthma attacks when taken in large quantities. It can also can blood sugar levels to drop to levels that are not healthy. One final caution is applicable to women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding. They should avoid taking ginseng.
If you want to use herbs medicinally, make sure to be well informed before chancing your health. Anecdotal evidence ranging over thousands of years shows that some can be beneficial, but it is hard to objectively evaluate. Use caution.
Medicinal herb gardening can be done easily at your home using pots or planting directly into the soil. They are as easy to care for as typical perennials and you reap the benefits of having a fresh homeopathic medicinal herb supply for a variety of home remedies.
