How Can I Get Started with Herbal Medicine?
Medicinal herbs are available at health food stores, herb shops, supermarkets, and
pharmacies. They can be used as a preventative, a tonic, or a treatment. Herbs can
be prepared and used in a number of ways. Extractsor tincturesare made by pressing
herbs with a heavy press and soaking them in alcohol or water, which after evapo-
ration yields a concentrated extract. Extracts are generally measured in drops and
diluted in a small amount of water for ingestion. A preparation of the delicate parts
of plants—that is, leaves, flowers, and seeds—is called an infusion, a process similar
to making tea. Hot water is poured over the herb, steeped for 3–5 minutes, and
strained before drinking. Honey or lemon may be added to taste. Decoctionis the
preparation of the more resilient parts of plants, such as the bark, roots, and berries.
These parts of the herb are usually boiled for 10–20 minutes and strained before
drinking. A compressis a cloth soaked in a warm or cool herbal solution and applied
directly to an injured area. An herbal poulticeis made by mixing powered herbs with
enough hot water to make a thick paste that is then applied directly to the skin.
Poultices are used to reduce swelling, relieve pain, decrease muscle spasms, draw out
toxins from the body, increase circulation, and speed healing. Table 6.2 lists some of
the more common herbs as well as their action, dosage, and side effects. Table 6.3
provides some herbal remedies you can make at home.Table 6.2 Common Herbal Treatments
Herb Properties/Use Form/Dose Notes
Capsaicin For tenderness and pain Cream topically applied May be a brief
of osteoarthritis, fibro- burning or stinging
myalgia, diabetic neuro- sensation with first
pathy, shingles use; wash hands after
applying; avoid touch-
ing eyes
Chamomile For anxiety, stomach Infusion or tincture, NOT for those allergic
distress, stomach ulcers, 1 teaspoon twice daily to ragweed
infant colic, drug with-
drawal
Chondroitin Helps slow cartilage 400 mg twice daily No known side effects
degradation in osteo-
arthritis
Echinacea Antiviral, antibiotic for 400 mg for 5–14 days, NOT for people with
colds, flu, and other peaks at 5 days autoimmune disease;
infections NOT for pregnant and
lactating women; bit-
ter taste90 ABSOLUTE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TOALTERNATIVE MEDICINE