“The use of crude plant material (leaves, flowers, fruit, seed, stems, wood, bark, roots, rhizomes or other plant parts), which may be entire, fragmented or powdered”. A definition of Herbalism from the World Health Organization (WHO)
The term herbalism refers to the long-historical use of these plants as medicines to support the healing function of the body. Because of the long tradition of using botanicals to promote health, the use of herbs is well-established and widely acknowledged to be safe and effective.
Simply put, herbalism uses plants and foods for healing and for building and maintaining good health. Herbalism is the oldest known medical practice with an unbroken tradition that reaches back to the very beginning of recorded history.
The FDA today considers herbalism a biologically based practice of complementary and alternative medicine and includes the use of dietary supplements, foods, and other natural substances. Dietary supplements consist of herbs, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and certain glandular substances used to supplement the normal diet. All of these supplements can help support the body’s systems holistically.
Herbalists may use other natural modalities in addition to herbs and foods including sunshine, detoxification practices, exercise, lifestyle changes, fresh air, and hydration. Herbalists help clients build solid foundations of health with a focus on incorporating plants for healing and nourishment. In other words, herbalists are specialists in herbs but their techniques are not restricted to herbal use only.
As herbalists, we share a common core belief in the power of plants for life and health and a love of nature. We understand God created this planet for us and has given us a vast variety of plants for our health and healing. It is a key component in natural medicine.
