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
Tree Profile: Yew (taxus baccata)
Few western European trees are as enigmatic as the Yew. Dark, brooding and sometimes eery, each Yew tree very much has its own personality.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening Primrose Oil is one of the best sources of Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA) with valuable therapeutic and medicinal properties.
Medicinal Uses of Poppy (Papaver somniferum)
To this day, opium and its derivatives supply us with some of the most effective painkilling agents used in medicine. These substances bring great relief to those suffering from agonizing pain. But they are also dangerously addictive.
Plant Profile: Aloe vera
Plant Profile Aloe vera – Aloe Vera is no longer an exotic stranger. It has found its way into all kinds of common household products from washing-up liquid to latex gloves, and even razors.
Plantains – Plantago sp.
As masters of adaptation, Plantains are ubiquitous. They have managed to eke out a living in almost every conceivable kind of habitat.
Plant Profile: Mistletoe – Viscum album
Plant Profile: Mysterious Mistletoe. This strange evergreen plant has a fascinating mythology and some very interesting medicinal uses, too.
Let Your Foods Be Medicines
Nutrition plays a vital part in maintaining good health. Common foods have healing properties, yet, are much safer to use than chemically more potent drugs.
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
