Growing and using one’s own herbs is a fun and economical way to live a healthier life. By growing one’s own herbs, you can also ensure that they are organic and safe, and you benefit the environment in the process.
Many people have come to realize that natural herbs can often be used as alternatives to costly and often dangerous conventional medicines. People have used herbs for thousands of years to effectively deal with a large range of ailments and to maintain good health in general.
Even simple herbs like those found in one’s own spice rack can be used both for alternative treatment and as a means of preventing disease and promoting good health. While some of the more exotic spices like nutmeg and cloves may not be possible to grow in your own garden, many other types of common spices are possible. For example, you can grow your own parsley, rosemary, lemons and limes in practically any climate and environment.
Because herbs are natural they tend to be safer than synthetic medicines. However, one should not think that all naturally-grown plants are necessarily harmless. Some plants are, in fact, poisonous so you have to take a little care even when using herbs as an alternative. However, food-quality herbs like those found in your spice rack are generally safe so long as you don’t go overboard in their use.
Garlic, for example, is a very common culinary herb but also an extremely effective medicinal herb when used properly. One can use copious amounts of garlic, even raw garlic, for short periods quite safely. Likewise, small amounts of garlic can be used safely even on a continuous basis. Cooked garlic is basically harmless. However, very large amounts of raw garlic used for prolonged periods might contribute to excessive thinning of the blood, or other problems.
So, in most schools of alternative therapy the concept of moderation is to be adhered to. Fortunately, it is quite easy to find simple guidelines on the most commonly used herbs over the internet or in the large number of books written on natural healing.
Growing herbs in one’s own garden is easy to learn and a great way to stay fit while saving money on a large variety of herbs and vegetables. By growing herbs yourself, you can ensure that no harmful inorganic fertilizers or pesticides are used. You also save time and money by not having to venture to the grocery store every time you need some herb or other garden produce.
Learning the art of herbal healing and healthy living is relatively easy and is a skill that can be retained for a lifetime. Many people can get by just knowing the properties of a dozen or so herbs that they use most often to treat common ailments, or to generally keep their body in good tone and health. Whenever they need something more complex, they will generally have a familiar reference handy that they can consult.
Thus, herbalism is something that any individual can learn. Of course, in some cases it may be better to consult with a professional alternative healer or herbalist, but for common ailments and general health maintenance, do-it-yourself is a viable option.
In comparison to conventional medicine, herbs are far less expensive and are very rarely addicting or excessively habit-forming. If one wishes to expand one’s knowledge, it is possible to learn how to identify a wide range of herbs, including those that grow in the wild, along with knowing the properties of each plant.
In terms of the effectiveness of herbs, there is both anecdotal and clinical trial evidence to support the use of herbs for both treatment of disease and maintenance of good health. Indeed, many doctors and other orthodox medical practitioners incorporate alternative forms of treatment including the use of herbs in their own practices.
In some countries, herbs form a separate branch of medicine that is formally recognized by government agencies.
When used together with a good, balanced diet, a regular exercise or physical activity regimen, and other good health practices, herbs can contribute greatly to a healthier and happier you. And it’s never too late to learn the art of using herbs.