The Wild World of Herbal Medicine: Characteristics and Common Usages of Herbs Found Around the World

Presented By CJ PickeringLive Your Best LifeThe Wild World of Herbal Medicine:Characteristics and Common Usages of Herbs Found Around the World

Good evening class. How is everyone doing? Thats great to hear. Tonight will be the first part of a three segment course on complementary and alternative medicine. The title of this course, if some of you were not already aware, is called CAM: The Other Side of Medicine. Over the next three weeks we are going to be covering alternative modalities that offer tremendous health benefits to the recipients without some of the negative side effects which tend to accompany traditional medical treatments.

1AgendaWhat is herbal medicine?How does herbal medicine work?Why should you know about herbs?Discuss various types of herbs and their common uses.

This evening we are going to cover what botanical, or herbal, medicine is; various types of herbs that exist; where the herbs are found; and which cultures use them more prevalently. Additionally, we will cover why it is important to learn about herbal medicine and their uses.2What is Herbal Medicine?Sometimes called Herbalism or Botanical MedicineRefers to the use of herbs for therapeutic or medicinal purposesHerbalists use leaves, flowers, stems, and various parts of plants to treat an illness or diseaseThe oldest form of healthcare known to manMany drugs used today originated from herbsAbout 25% of prescription drugs sold in the United States contain at least one active ingredient derived from plantsPlants used for medicine is older than recorded history

Some of you may be asking yourselves, what is herbal medicine? Herbal medicine has a few different names; however, they all mean the same thing. Herbal medicine is sometimes referred to as herbalism or botanical medicine. Prior to the advancements in pharmaceutical drugs, herbs were the popular treatment option among healthcare practitioners. Herbs originate from plants. Many of the medicines that people commonly use to today for an assortment of ailments were developed from plants and plant parts. For instance, the poppy seeds on your bagel happen to contain the main ingredient in the painkiller morphine. 3How Does Herbal Medicine Work?Whole herbsHarmonious approach transfers to patientHerbs harvested are used in several different forms

Unlike traditional medicines, herbalists will make use of the entire herb, instead of isolating a particular part. They believe that by utilizing the entire plant, the harmony of oneness and wholeness will transfer in the form of optimal healing to the patient. Herbs do not only come in pill form. Depending on the use of the herb, they can come in the form of: teas, tablets, tinctures, oils, creams, syrups and juices. 4Why You Should Know About Herbal MedicineOver the years, the trends are beginning to reverse, where more and more people are seeking out CAM practitioners. This is indicated in the graphs. It is also more cost-effective than other traditional treatment options.

Anyone interested in the health and wellness industry should pay careful attention to one of the most popular forms of complementary therapies, which is the use of herbs. Throughout the 1990s, a drastic increase in the use of herbs among U.S. residents occurred. A poll conducted in 1998 showed that Americans increased their use of herbs from less than 5% in 1991 to more than 40% in 1998 (University of Minnesota, 2011). The popularity of botanical medicine has only increased significantly since the 90s. A survey among adult Americans showed that 65% regularly use herbal dietary supplements (University of Minnesota, 2011). 5Herbs Around the Globe - TCMOver 100,000 medicinal recipes recorded throughout ancient literaturePlant parts and extracts are the most common elements usedFour Natures-TCM uses hot and warm herbs to treat cold diseases and cool and cold herbs to treat hot diseases

Herbs are widely used throughout the globe. You can find their use in many countries and cultures throughout history, but most importantly, in present day. One such place where the use of herbs has always been rampant is in China. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a medical system with many practices that dates back to more than 2,000 years. TCM views health as a harmonious interaction between the body and the outside world. Disease is viewed as disharmony between the body and its surroundings. TCM uses herbal remedies to treat and cure the body from illness.

6Common Herbs and Uses - TCMEphedra - stimulant herb used to treat asthmaLicorice - helps treat hepatitis, sore throat, muscle spasmsGinger - commonly used to treat nauseaRhubarb used as a strong laxativeRehmannia used for anemia, constipation, and dizzinessCinnamon used to reduce glucose and LDL cholesterolBupleurum- used to treat liver diseases, skin ailments, arthritis, ulcers, and mental disordersAstragalus used to treat immune deficiencies and allergiesThere are many herbs that are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Their uses range from treating mild to moderate depression to the common cold and flu, as well as migraines and arthritis. If you have an ailment, TCM more than likely, has an herb for it. 7Herbs Around the Globe Native American MedicineNative Americans use many different herbal remedies to treat and cure their illnesses and diseasesMade good use of their surroundings-never let any plant or animal parts go unused Had various spiritual practices they would use while they harvested herbs for medicinal purposesUse various herbal remedies to detoxify the body and cleanse the spirit

Another culture where the use of herbs is employed for medical treatments is in Native American medicine. Native American Indians have strong convictions that revolve around the connection between man and his surrounding world. They have a strong spirituality, which transcends into a great respect for all creatures of the world. They employ the use of plants and plant parts to treat and cure various illnesses. 8Common Herbs and Uses Native American MedicineSkunk Cabbage helps to treat asthma Mullein smoked the dried leaves to relieve asthmaCreosote Bush helps to treat bronchitis and other respiratory problemsPleuris Root - used to treat pneumonia and remove phlegm Yellow-Spined Thistle used to treat burns and skin soresPartridge Berry used as a tea taken regularly prior to the expected date of delivery, used to speed child birthBuckwheat used to stop hemorrhaging Wild Black Cherry used to relieve pain of childbirth Native Americans relied heavily on certain herbs to help treat everything from common, daily ailments, such as asthma or respiratory problems to more severe conditions, like pneumonia. Some common herbs they used are: Skunk Cabbage, Mullein, Creosote Bush, Pleuris Root, Yellow-Spined Thistle, Partridge berry, Buckwheat, Wild Black Cherry. 9Herbs Around the Globe Ancient Egyptian MedicineMagic and religion were considered a vital component of everyday lifeEvil demons were thought to be the culprits of many ailmentsUsed simple recipes to formulate medications commonly added to food in the form of spices and liquids

As we continue to circle the globe, our next stop is Egypt. Ancient Egyptian medicine has some of the oldest documented medical treatments for various health conditions. They employed simple, non-invasive surgical techniques to heal injuries and treat disease. One of the earliest known surgeries performed was in Egypt in 2750 BC. The ancient Egyptians were pioneers in many areas of medicine. Some of their philosophies were far ahead of their time. Even during ancient times, the people of Egypt were aware of the importance of diet and the roles of moderation and balance. Herbal medicine is an important component of the Egyptians medical treatments.

10Common Herbs and Uses Ancient Egyptian MedicineOnion was worshipped by the ancient Egyptians, believed that the shape symbolized eternal life, used to treat heart disease, inhibit strokes, lower cholesterolCastor Oil found in the tombs of ancient Egyptians dating back to 4000 BC, doctors used oil to protect against eye diseases -particularly to help with irritation and dryness

Ancient Egyptian herbal remedies were not concocted by accident. They had developed extensive knowledge through trial and error. The Egyptians had an advanced understanding of organs and their functions and how certain herbs would interact with them. For instance, Acacia was harvested from the Acacia tree, mixed into boiling water to form a mucilage and was used to treat gastrointestinal and urinary tract infections. Honey was quite popular among Egyptian remedies. It was used for its antiseptic and antifungal properties. The honey was applied both internally and externally to aid in healing wounds and fighting infections. Fenugreek, also known as Helba, was one of the oldest medicinal herbs in ancient Egypt. It was used to ease childbirth, increase milk flow, alleviate menstrual pain, and treat male impotence.

11Common Herbs and Uses Ancient Egyptian Medicine Continued

GarlicHennaCoriander

Some other herbs that are common today that were used in ancient Egypt was garlic, coriander, and henna. Garlic was used to enhance vitality and strength. It was commonly fed to workers workers in charge of building the pyramids to improve their capacity to work harder and longer. Coriander is one of the first herbs mentioned in ancient scripts. It is used for its pain-relieving properties that are helpful with headaches, arthritis, muscle pain and stiffness. The oil from coriander is also used to remove toxins and stimulate circulation. Henna is used as a dye and also to treat jaundice, leprosy, small pox and other conditions of the skin. In addition, it was commonly applied to open wounds for its antiseptic properties.

12Herbs Around the Globe India (Ayurveda)Hygienic living is an integral part of the Indian culture and practice of Ayurvedic medicine (for example: bathing, cleaning of teeth, skin and eyes, etc.) A main focal point of their medical system is using plant-based medicines to treat and cure injuries, illnesses, and diseases

Ayurveda is a traditional medical system that is native to India. It is an alternative form of medicine that has been around for thousands of years. In Sanskrit, the word ayus means longevity and veda means related to knowledge or science. Ayurvedic practitioners believe that the key to health is building and sustaining a strong metabolic system, obtaining good digestion, as well as the proper excretion of heavy metals for excellent mental and physical wellbeing (Veria Living, 2011). Ayrurveda medicine uses exercise, meditation, yoga and lots of herbal remedies to treat disease and illness.

13Common Herbs and Uses India (Ayurvedic)Ashoka- small evergreen tree from India, it is brewed into a tonic and used to stop uterine bleeding and maintain proper function of female reproductive system.Bitter Melon- used to regulate the bodies ability to process sugar

Ayurvedic medicine originated in India over 5,000 years ago and has become quite popular in the western world. It uses herbs to treat the mind, body, and spirit of the patient. Some of the common herbs used are ashoka, bitter melon, boswellia, and bibitaki. Boswellia is an herbal remedy that is found in large branching trees in the dry hills of India. It is used to help support joint health and offers immunomodulating benefits for arthritis sufferers. The bibitaki herb is used to clean the bowels and it is also gargled with for sore throats because of its heating and soothing properties.

14Common Herbs and Uses India (Ayurvedic) Continued

Brahmi

ChitrakTwo another herbs that are also widely used in Ayurvedic medicine are brahmi and chitrak. Brahmi is a perennial plant whose habitat includes wetlands and muddy shores. It is considered the primary Ayurvedic herb for cardiac and nerve health, while also treating an assortment of other ailments including: venereal diseases, nervous disorders, premature aging, and hair loss. On the other hand, chitrak is a perennial shrub that is a pungent herb used to improve digestion and remove toxins from the body.

15Common Herbs and Uses India (Ayurvedic) ContinuedArjuna- mostly used in tonic form to treat cardiac conditions and also supports circulation and oxygenation of all tissues

Two more Ayurvedic herbal remedies are arjuna and chyavanprash. Arjuna also referred to as Terminalia Arjuna; has been used in Ayurveda since 2500BC. It provides amazing benefits to heart and cardiovascular system. Chyavanprash is an herbal jam made from the amalaki fruit, which is a little green fruit no larger than a golf ball. It is one of the highest sources of vitamin C. Chyavanprash is fortified with over 20 different herbs that are used to rejuvenate and strengthen the immune system.

16Herbs Around the Globe South AmericaDuring ancient times more than 1200 plants were harvested from the jungles of Central and South America and concocted into teas, tinctures, baths, and plastersThese herbal remedies were the primary means of taking care of people afflicted with illness, injury, and disease.

As we continue our trip around the world our final stop for this evening is in Central and South America. This particular region has an unmatched fortune of diverse vegetation, which holds the key elements to many aliments. Its vastness is unparallel, in the area of Brazil alone there is over 55,000 species of flowering plants. Many believe the Amazon rainforest is mankind's best chance finding new herbs to combat disease and sustain health of the human race.17Common Herbs and Uses South AmericaYerba Mate- herb found in South American rainforests. Known fro its stimulant effects. It is used to treat hay fever, asthma, improve digestion and combat fatigueCats Claw- used to enhance the immune system.

Some of the common herbs used in Central and South America are yerba mate, cats claw, stevia, and cinchona. Stevia comes the rainforests in Paraguay and Brazil and it is harvested from the leaf of the stevia plant. It is used a non-calorie sweetener in food.Cinchona herb was the original cure for malaria. This herb has many purposes and is used frequently for its antiviral and antipyretic properties. It is also used to treat leg cramps, headaches and colds. 18Common Herbs and Uses South America

Boldo

Passion Flower

Lapacho

Suma Boldo is an herb that is found in Chili and Peru. Its leaves contain properties that are used to treat liver ailments and gallstones The Lapacho tree has elements that are useful in treating cancer and Candida. This herb is also used to treat bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi.Passion Flower is used as a sedative to reduce anxiety and tension. It is also used to treat PMS and insomnia. The suma herb is used to enhance the immune system, fight cancer and diabetes.

19In SummaryPeople from all regions of the globe have been using herbal remedies to treat their sick for thousands of years.Some of these herbs are still used to today.Many of the herbs have been studied extensively with sufficient evidence to support the health claims. However, more research still needed for some.If you are thinking about incorporating herbal medicine into your overall treatment plan, please do your research and consult with your primary care physician before you begin.Theses are exciting times to be alive we are now living in an age where we can combine the knowledge of the past with science of the present to make a healthier future.People from all regions of the globe have been using herbal remedies to treat their sick for thousands of years. Some of these herbs are still used to today. Many of the herbs have been studied extensively with sufficient evidence to support the health claims. However, more research still needed for some. If you are thinking about incorporating herbal medicine into your overall treatment plan, please do your research and consult with your primary care physician before you begin. Theses are exciting times to be alive we are now living in an age where we can combine the knowledge of the past with science of the present to make a healthier future.

20References:http://www.rain-tree.com/article4.htmhttp://nccam.nih.gov/health/whatiscam/chinesemed.htmhttp://www.native-american-online.org/native-american-medicine.htmlhttp://www.indiana.edu/~ancmed/egypt.HTMhttp://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/ayurveda-000348.htmVeria Living. (2011, December 17).Ayurvedic Herbs. Retrieved from http://www.veria.com/herbs-supplements/ayurvedic-herbs