Every culture that has ever existed on this planet has developed a system of medicine to relieve or to heal the many discomforts and illnesses that afflict the body. Such traditional medicines almost always utilize herbs, roots, barks, and seeds, although other specialized techniques sometimes also play a role. The Herbal Knowledge that has accumulated over the centuries is based on a vast amount of empirical observation.
It is a vast and wonderful field of study, that not only gives us insights into the properties of various phytochemicals and their actions on the body, but also into the philosophy of life, health, and healing which varies widely between cultures. There are many kinds of medicines and many of them show great results even though the rationale behind them could not be more different.
The posts in this section focus on different aspects of herbalism, healing, and medical philosophy.
Plants as Medicine
Blueberries (Vaccinium myrtillus)
Summer is berry bliss. Bilberries are not just delicious but also incredibly healthy. Medicinal information and recipes.
What are Essential Oils?
What are essential oils? History and uses of essential oils, methods of extraction, various applications, and any potential concerns
Plant Profile: Medicinal Uses of Rose
Roses have long been valued for their various medicinal benefits. The petals are rich in essential oils, while the rosehips are rich in vitamins. The seeds are a valuable source of GLA
All about the Elder-tree – its myths, magic, and medicine
The Elder tree is the medicine cabinet of the country people. This much loved, bushy tree is a common sight throughout Britain, Europe, and North America.
Why Hawthorn is your heart’s best friend
Plant Profile: Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) When the Hawthorn dapples the hedgerows with its pinkish-white blossom, we know that spring is here to stay. Typically, Hawthorn starts to flower at the end of April or the beginning of May, which is why it is also...
Hayfever Remedies
If you suffer from hay-fever, you are probably not so well pleased with the arrival of spring. Pollen-laden air can be a source of misery. But a number of natural remedies can alleviate the symptoms.
Vinegar of the four thieves
There is a famous herbal formula, known as the Vinegar of the Four Thieves, which dates back to the times when Europe was ravished by the Black Death. Apparently, it had the power to fend off any ills!
The Camphor Tree
The characteristic scent of Camphor is familiar to anyone who has had a close encounter with VapoRub, but few have ever seen the pure, white crystalline substance from which the scent derives. Still, fewer are aware that this mysterious substance is entirely natural and comes from a tree that is native to southern China, southern Japan, and Taiwan. The Camphor Tree (Cinnamomum camphora) is closely related to the Cinnamon Tree, (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), with which it is sometimes confused. However, the unmistakable scent of the leaves immediately reveals its true identity.
Spring Detox
The idea of a body cleanse is to support the body’s eliminative functions in order to help it in the process of getting rid of accumulated metabolic waste products, which often linger on in a sluggish system.
Plant profile: Turmeric – Curcuma longa
Turmeric has a long history of use, not just as a spice, but also as a healing agent and a magical herb. As a spice, it is best known as one of the principal components of curry powder, to which it dons the characteristic yellow colour.
