Living an Herbal Life

Gary Picariello

Long before the existence of RiteAid, Walgreens or any other brand name convenience drug stores, the average individual often turned to Mother Nature for help with the  common cold and many other ailments. Today, natural herbs play a big role in our attempts to improve our overall level of health and well-being. And lest you think only humans have turned to herbal medicine, think again. Research has shown us that many animals -- chimpanzees and other primates in particular -- commonly use a variety of herbs and grasses to cure ailments and injuries.

Such is the basis for living an herbal life: relying on Mother Nature and the plants and herbs she provides as a means to cure what ails us. Think I'm kidding? Plants and herbal recipes are used to treat a number of health concerns and conditions ranging from allergies to arthritis to fatigue and more, and many are found right at your fingertips.

If It's Natural It Must be Good

Herbal remedies have been in existence for several thousand years, at least. So why the (not so) sudden interest? Well, herbal remedies are natural, which means the herbs aren't treated with chemicals or insecticides. And herbal medicines are less expensive then their pharmaceutical counterparts. So in the minds of many, herbal medicine offers a safer means of treatment to conventional medications.

Popular Uses

The last thing you need is a laundry list of natural remedies. A simple Google search will provide you an efficient starting point. That said, there are a handful of herbal alternatives that are easily produced or acquired and that may offer you some benefit.

At the top of the list is ginger. In addition to being the most widely used dietary  supplement worldwide, ginger has proven itself to relieve indigestion and nausea and boost the immune and respiratory function.

Raw garlic has more uses than fending off Dracula and unwanted suitors. Garlic contains a variety of vital nutrients, and studies have shown have shown that consuming garlic in capsule form or as a meal additive has been known to help treat diabetes and even boost the immune system.

The Right Choice? 

Is the herbal life right for you? Just remember, when herbs are used as medicines they should be treated as such. 

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Farmington, Utah