- Plants have been used as medicine in every culture since ancient times
- Specific plants effect particular systems and conditions
- Medicinal herbs are plants or foods with specific therapeutic, physiological effects
"Let food be thy medicine, and let medicine be thy food." -Hippocrates
Herbal medicines are used at our center to treat chronic degenerative diseases such as heart disease, high cholesterol, fibromylagia, thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalances, menopause and premenstrual syndrome to name a few.
Western Herbal Medicine
The medicinal benefits of herbs have been known for centuries. Herbs contain
powerful ingredients that assist with healing. The early pharmaceutical
industry isolated these ingredients, but today herbalists believe that
using complete herbs (instead of isolating ingredients) provides a better
balance of substances from nature.
Many believe that the healing properties of herbs are more effective than
drugs because balance can be found in the whole plant, without side effects. Since herbs
are powerful they must be used wisely and under an herbalist's care. Herbs are used in many forms: dried,
tea, lotions, oils, powders, capsules, tablets, tea pills, extracts and tinctures. They can promote well-being
and health maintenance, as well as heal specific conditions.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Herbal preparations have been subject to rigorous study in China, where
they are used as primary medical treatment.
Chinese Herbal Medicine is formulated specifically for each individual's
whole body, rather than one symptom. An individual
formula is made from small amounts of 7-15 herbs, which is later altered
as the body begins to respond. The active ingredients are released into
the bloodstream slowly, as is food.
For example Eephedra (a leafless shrub of arid regions and a source for
the drug ephedrine) is the oldest medicinal plant of which there are written
records. Ancient Chinese doctors, who know it as ma huang, have recommended
it for respiratory congestion & asthma for about five thousand years.
It is both a stimulant and relaxant of bronchial muscles. When used in a
dilute tea form, the stimulant qualities are reduced, promoting relaxation
and relief in bronchial muscles.
Ruth has helped me to be more aware of my body and has helped immensely to ease stress and get me more centered. I was very skeptical at first but she has made me a believer in the power of acupuncture
-Mark from Bedminster, NJ
