The Natural Path to Wellbeing
Herbal Medicine is the oldest medicine and it has been used in all cultures of the world for a thousand of years, which has the inherent healing properties of plants as medicine. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 75% of the world’s population use herbal remedies as part of their primary health care. Dispensing herbal medicine requires specialized knowledge which may take a number of years to achieve.
Modern Herbal Medicine or Phytotherapy, combines the wisdom of ancient traditions, the clinical experience of modern practitioners, published literature and increasingly, is being validated by current scientific research.
Mankind is fortunate to have access to many high quality standardized herbal medicines in the form of dried herbs, extracts, tinctures, powders and tablets. The parts of the plant used include roots, seeds, leaves, flowers, stems and indeed the whole plant depending on the herb. Each part of the plant can have a different medicinal use. Manufacturers use different ways of extracting the chemicals from the plant parts. They use fresh and dried plants to make the medicine.
Herbalists and Naturopaths believe the active ingredients found in herbs are supported by the synergistic actions of all its other chemical constituents. This synergy allows the herb to exert its therapeutic affects and at the same time reduces the potential for unwanted side effects. Plants are complex medicines with many actions available in a single plant. This is quite different from pharmaceutical formulations that commonly have one action. Many herbs act as modulators. They may increase or decrease cellular responses. This is another unique inherent quality of using herbal medicine.
Herbal remedies are suitable for both acute and chronic conditions. They are individually prescribed and dispensed based on the presenting symptoms and the underlying causes determined by the practitioner from a detailed case history and thorough consultation. A herbal formula can be individualized, is able to simultaneously treat a variety of symptoms or body systems, and therefore is cost effective for the individual. Many herbs are tonics to specific organs or body systems. These include herbs for the gastro-intestinal system, reproductive system, nervous system, urinary system, immune system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system etc.
At Azycare, the natural path strategy is designed to moderate or alleviate symptoms and strengthen body systems. Its aim is to help prevent disease and support the body in its ability to heal itself by restoring balance and increasing vitality. This then brings about increased energy, improved health and a greater sense of well being. Herbs prescribed correctly are extremely safe. If a patient is taking pharmaceutical medicine should seek GP advice.
