The potent healing qualities of herbs have been used in different therapeutic philosophies throughout history. We find plants used within the Indian Ayurvedic system, in Chinese medicine alongside acupuncture, Qi Kung, and other techniques. We see them being used as a source of drugs in the highly scientific and technological approach of modern pharmacy and "convential" western medicine.

Infact, the "convential" western medicine we are all familiar with had its roots in the use of herbs. Until about fifty years ago, nearly all of the entries in the pharmacopoeias describing the manufacture of drugs indicated a herbal origin. Only since the refinement of synthetic, chemical technology and developments in chemotherapy has the use and reliance of herbs diminshed. Nonetheless it ought to be recognised that a majority of drugs still have their origin in plants. For instance who would have thought that the often used without a thought Aspirin has it's origins from the traditional use of such herbs as Meadowsweet and Black Willow. Infact it's name comes from the old botanical name of Meadowsweet, Spirea.

Herbal medicine in its holistic sense recognises the human body as a complete entity,and the herbs work with this being as a whole. They do function through biochemical interactions and specific applications, but they do so in such a way that it promotes and supports the vital processes of the body. On a biochemical level the numerous ingredients in a herb work in a synergistic way, with elements involved in the process that "convential medicine would not even consider as being active. Synthetic, chemotherapy is very specific in it's targeting of dis-ease and illness, often resulting in side effects. What is a little scary though is the word Chemotherapy. We all just naturally assume this hardcore form of treatment is associated with cancer treatmnents, but break down the word - CHEMO (chemical) THERAPY; therapy from the application of sythethised chemicals - in other words the pills we get prescribed from the doctor on an everyday basis. If we thought we were getting chemotherapy each time we return from the chemist or drugstore to administer in our own homes, perhaps we may think twice about what we are doing, but this is exactly what is happening. The side effects are often listed in the comprehensive disclaimer and product information sheets that arrive sometimes with the drugs - please do yourself a favour and read one of those at some point in the near future. At times these are no longer even deemed necessary and are posted on websites for you as a consumer to find and read, again, please do this. It is quite an education!