Herbalism: Understanding the Natural Magic of Plant Remedies

Over the past decade, there’s been a steady rise in alternative and complementary medicine approaches. More and more people are caring about their holistic health and taking their care into their own hands. And the fact is, there are many natural ways to spearhead your health. For example, chiropractic care is just one method that takes a natural approach to healing without relying on heavy medications that could compound your pain. 

Non-invasive methods can improve your overall well-being, steering you away from the increasingly complex world of Western medicine. There are natural alternatives and vitamins that can help you achieve many of your goals. For example, if you want to improve your memory and motivation, you might take C60 olive oil supplements (learn more about what is C60). 

Keep in mind that this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go to your doctor for acute pain; there are numerous instances where a traditional doctor can help diagnose or heal you (such as in the case of broken bones). However, if you’re looking for a better quality of life and don’t want to rely on medications indefinitely, now is a good time to investigate the healing magic of plant remedies. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Herbalism

Plants are our best allies on this earth, and they offer a system with which we can help us heal. Our relationship with plants dates 5,000 BC (the earliest recordings). According to Christine Buckley, author of “Plant Magic,” herbalism is a system of healing that relies on a foundation of good health supported by plants and food.

Herbalism about seeing ourselves, on another, and plants as intertwined—connected and balanced. To practice herbalism means you are capable of receiving the healing capacity of nature. While you cannot compare herbalism to a life-saving surgery, there’s no denying the transformative power that plants can have on our overall health.

Expose Yourself to Natural Environments

It’s not just ingesting or smelling plants that can help you; numerous studies have shown that exposure to natural environments can do wonders for your mental, emotional, and even physical health. Connecting deeply with the world around you is natural; we are, by nature, connected with the soil and green life around us. And because of this, it’s no wonder that we feel deeply rooted to our surrounding earth.

Herbal Remedies That Matter

Now that you know herbal remedies can make a big difference in your life, it’s time to analyze how different plants can contribute to your health. You’d be surprised to find that many of them are already growing all around you.

For example, the American elderberry tends to grow in the cracks of asphalt and walking paths, and it’s a great anti-inflammatory and sedative herb. Cinnamon is another popular herb grown often on plantations, but easily found in farmer’s markets; this herb is nutritive and tonic. And chamomile grows in sunny fields and grazed grasslands, and has healing relaxing properties and aids your digestive tract.

Working With an Herbalist

An herbal practitioner explores your health issues and medical history to help determine which herbal vitamins and remedies would best be catered to your specific needs. One of the biggest benefits is that it allows you to have a one-on-one conversation with a licensed professional who can answer some of your most pressing questions. You’ll also save yourself plenty of time from having to make your own concoctions at home, which could take plenty of time, research, and even trial and error. If you’re short on time and want quick answers and solutions, an herbalist could be an effective method. 

Homemade Medicines

Believe it or not, making homemade medicines is easy enough. After all, you’ve already got the ingredients to your recipe all around you—or at least a short walk, drive, or ecommerce click away. If you want to become more involved with and connected to your herbal adventure, consider making your own plant-based homemade medicines.

For starters, always do your best to support best practices. This means buying natural products from local farmers and organic suppliers. Doing so not only ensures that you’re supporting those locals, but also ensures that you’re getting a quality product that isn’t bogged down by chemicals and pesticides.

While in your home, you can make tinctures (concentrated extract of a plant), herbal honey (a preserve that offers the medicinal action of a plant while infusing a delicious, healthy taste), an oxymel (sweet and sour preparation made from honey, herbs, and apple cider vinegar), a medicinal tea (a combination of herbs), or a decoction (slow simmering water extraction of fibrous plants like roots, seeds, and mushrooms).