While people have been practicing herbal medicine for thousands of years—long before recorded history—its popularity has increased in recent years as an alternative to modern pharmaceutical treatments. Herbal medicine, also known as herbalism, uses plant parts including roots, seeds, leaves, bark, berries, and flowers, to treat medical conditions. Although the manufacture and use of chemically derived drugs has overtaken that of herbal treatments in the health care field over the last century, about one quarter of all modern pharmaceuticals are formulated from plant sources.
Herbal medicines and supplements are sold over the counter in many drugstores and markets. They are used to treat a variety of conditions, including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, premenstrual and menopausal symptoms, digestive disorders, fatigue, mental illness, and even cancer. The effectiveness of herbal treatments varies between individuals, and some herbs may cause allergic reactions or interact with other medicines. One should always consult a physician before beginning any herbal treatment or regimen, especially in conjunction with other drugs.
About the Author: Dr. Randy Meltzer has been practicing natural medicine in the New York City area for over thirty years. His private practice offers applied kinesiology and chiropractic treatments, as well as herbal medicine, homeopathy, and Chinese Meridian therapy. He can reached at 212 255 6710.
Herbal medicines and supplements are sold over the counter in many drugstores and markets. They are used to treat a variety of conditions, including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, premenstrual and menopausal symptoms, digestive disorders, fatigue, mental illness, and even cancer. The effectiveness of herbal treatments varies between individuals, and some herbs may cause allergic reactions or interact with other medicines. One should always consult a physician before beginning any herbal treatment or regimen, especially in conjunction with other drugs.
About the Author: Dr. Randy Meltzer has been practicing natural medicine in the New York City area for over thirty years. His private practice offers applied kinesiology and chiropractic treatments, as well as herbal medicine, homeopathy, and Chinese Meridian therapy. He can reached at 212 255 6710.