The origins of herbal medicine can be traced back as far as 2852 B.C. and the Fu Si dynasty in China (Frey 1). Although there have been other recorded uses of herbal medicines this was considered the first system of use. The first books were written at this time: The Book of Changes, Shen Yojng?s Herbal Classic, and The Yellow Emperor?s Inner Classic. During this time of medical advancement, the Chinese opened the world?s first medical school where herbal treatments were studied in full force (Frey 1). Even recent studies, show that over forty four percent of the herbal remedies promoted by the Chinese School of Alternative Medicine were considered useful, as measured against modern medical treatments (Frey 2).

In the western world herbal remedies can be traced at least as far back as

3000 B.C. to the Egyptians (Bruno 2). Herbal treatments were also in practice amongst the Greeks, Romans, and people of the Middle East. By the time of Henry, the VIII of England the entire system of medicine in the western world was based on herbal remedies and even in some parts astrology (Bruno 2). It has only been in the years since World War II that ailments have been treated by anyth

No matter what form of herb you use there are some simple guidelines to follow when shopping. First, you should decide what herb is best for you. Do some research before buying them. There are many different solutions to a single problem, so check it

ing other than plants and herbs. During that time, those who practiced herbal medicine have gone from mainstream to the dark fringes of the medical establishment. However, in recent years alternative medicine has experienced something of a revival. In part, this revival has been spurred by the

Frey, Rebecca J. ?Chinese Traditional Herbal Medicine.? Gale Encyclopedia of

There are also herbal compounds that are used to treat things like mild depression. For depression or sluggishness people have turned to a compound called St. John?s Wort. It has often been called an herbal Prozac (Herbs 2). It contains assorted floral ingredients, vitamin B complex and ginseng (Herbs 7). It is classified as a mood elevator. Along with St. John?s Wort, the many forms of the ginseng plant have been found to boost energy and mental alertness (Herbs 8). Both of these substances should be used with caution, as they can elevate blood pressure significantly.

Publications. 25 June 2002. harlingen.tstc.edu:206?4824228&dyn=6!ar_fmt?sw_aep=txshracd 2578.html>.

derived from plants. As an example, people in different parts of the world have chewed on willow bark to relieve everything from headaches to flu symptoms (Herbs 4). It wasn?t until recently that scientists found that the active ingredient in the bark is the same active ingredient in Aspirin (Herbs 4). Examples like this serve to solidify people?s belief in herbal treatments for common problems. Although the active ingredients may be the same, there is a difference between taking the herbal version.

Tyler, Varro E. ?Honest Herbalist?.Prevention. November 98. 23 June 2002.

In America today, one of the biggest problems is high cholesterol. In response to this problem, many herbalists and practitioners of holistic medicine turn to some easy to find solutions. The most commonly discussed treatment and the most medically sound is the use of Garlic or Garlic capsules. For centuries, garlic has been promoted for a cure for everything from hemorrhoids to tuberculosis (Food 6). Although science has been unable to prove many of theses claims, studies show that garlic does have the ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure as well as aiding in the prevention of heart disease

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