Herbal Medicine

Herbal Medicine

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How can herbal medicine nourish you?

Herbal medicine is based on therapeutic products prepared from plant ingredients[1]. It is believed to be the oldest form of medicine, with prescriptions for plant-based medicinal treatments found on a Sumerian clay tablet estimated to be more than 4,000 years old[2]. Also called ‘phytotherapy’, herbalism is practised in every culture worldwide, and it is estimated that herbal preparations are used by 75% of the world’s population today[3]. 

In Australia, the most popular traditions of herbal medicine[4] are Western herbalism, traditional Chinese remedies, Indigenous medicine, and Ayurvedic treatments originating from India. Traditional Chinese medicine is regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)[5], so check that any practitioner who prescribes you a Chinese herbal remedy is registered with this government body. 

In traditional Chinese medicine, therapeutic preparations may also include mineral and animal ingredients[6]. Reputable Chinese herbalists practising in Australia do not prescribe remedies containing ingredients derived from endangered species[7]. 

Although phytotherapy is associated with alternative medicine in conventional Western medical practice, many mainstream prescription medicines are based on active ingredients derived from plants. Morphine, one of the most powerful painkillers available, is still extracted from the opium poppy[8], while digoxin (a medication for heart problems) is made from a species of foxglove, Digitalis lanata[9]. In both cases, the active ingredients are sourced from plants due to how difficult and expensive they are to synthesise artificially.

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Practitioners offering Herbal Medicine

Rebecca Cook - Rebecca Cook Naturopathy Rebecca Cook profile impression
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Rebecca Cook Naturopathy
5.00 (2)
Austinmer, New South Wales, Australia
Online
In person
Hatha Yoga Herbal Medicine +4
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5.00 (2)
Austinmer, New South Wales, Australia
Online
In person
Hatha Yoga Herbal Medicine +4
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Bartley Melocco - Sevenways Health Centre Bartley Melocco profile impression
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Sevenways Health Centre
North Bondi, New South Wales, Australia
Online
In person
Acupuncture Cupping +2
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North Bondi, New South Wales, Australia
Online
In person
Acupuncture Cupping +2
View profile
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Benefits of herbal medicine

It has been known for hundreds of years that some chemical compounds found in nature cure serious illnesses. One example is quinine, derived from the bark of the cinchona tree, used to treat malaria since the 17th century[10]. Today, the effectiveness of many herbal remedies is supported by evidence-based research, with many studies exploring the practicality of developing pharmaceutical drugs[11] from these natural remedies.

There is evidence to suggest that a medicinal herb called ‘stonebreaker’ (Phyllanthus niruri) may be an effective treatment for ovarian cancer[12]. The results of a systematic review indicate St John’s Wort, a popular Western medicinal herb, may be as effective as pharmaceutical drugs for treating major depression[13], but with less side effects. Research suggests sunflower seed oil may alleviate the symptoms of atopic dermatitis[14], particularly in young children, reducing the need for steroid-based medication.

Chinese herbal medicine is a subject of particular academic interest, with a number of studies researching its potential usefulness in the development of pharmaceutical medication[15]. It is reported that Chinese herbal preparations may effectively treat disorders of the digestive system[16], and the results of a meta-analysis suggest this modality may double the chances of pregnancy for women[17] with fertility problems. There is also research to suggest compounds found in Chinese herbal medicine may be effective in the treatment of liver cancer[18].

Herbal medicine may assist in relieving symptoms related to:

Allergies Arthritis, rheumatism and osteoarthritis Back pain Cancer Chickenpox and shingles Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) Depression Dermatitis Detoxing and cleansing Diabetes Digestive and gastrointestinal issues Eczema and psoriasis Endometriosis Energy and vitality Fertility and reproductive issues Headaches and migraines Heart conditions and heart attack Hormonal issues Immunity issues Insomnia and sleep disorders Liver issues Menopause and hot flushes Mood imbalances Muscle spasm, tightness and cramps Nervous system and neurological conditions Pain relief PMT/PMS and menstrual issues Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) Pregnancy, birth and antenatal support Respiratory and breathing issues Skin, hair and nail issues Weight control and obesity Show all

What to expect from a herbal medicine session

If visiting a Western herbal medicine practitioner, you will be asked about your medical history as well as your lifestyle[19] and any specific health concerns. Your herbalist might also examine your hair, skin and nails for possible clues about nutritional imbalances or deficiencies, and possibly recommend a blood test[20] or other diagnostic procedures. 

Your practitioner will then develop a personalized treatment plan that will focus on herbal remedies and may also incorporate dietary modifications or nutritional supplements, depending on your specific needs [21]. Herbal products are often part of a holistic treatment program developed by a naturopath[22], which may also include homeopathic remedies and nutritional advice. 

If you are being treated by a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner, they will ask you similar questions about your health, lifestyle and medical history. Your practitioner will perform diagnostic tests that include evaluating your pulse and looking at your tongue[23], and may refer you to a specialist in Chinese herbs who will prepare a formula of selected ingredients[24] personalised to your specific requirements. Chinese herbal medicine is usually prescribed as part of a TCM treatment plan[25] that may also include acupuncture, cupping and massage, with the overall intention of correcting imbalances and dissolving blockages of qi (vital energy).

The effects of some herbal medicines may be as potent as pharmaceutical drugs, so you should only take remedies that have been recommended[26] by a suitably qualified herbalist, rather than selecting treatments for yourself. Herbalists registered with the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia[27] must demonstrate specialist qualifications, commit to a Code of Practice and undergo continuing professional development.

As with any exercise or wellness program, please consult your medical professional before commencing herbal medicine. It is particularly important to check whether there is a risk of interaction[28] between any conventional medication you are taking, and a herbal preparation you might be prescribed. Also speak to your herbalist if you have any concerns at all; they will be happy to address these and ensure the preparations they prescribe are suitable for your individual requirements. 

References

  1. Herbal medicine | Better Health Channel
  2. History of opium poppy and morphine | Abstract| Europe PMC
  3. Herbal Medicine | Natural Therapy Pages
  4. Herbal Medicine in Australia | Health Courses | Health Academy Australia
  5. Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency | Aphra
  6. Chinese herbal medicine | Better Health Channel
  7. Australian regulatory guidelines for complementary medicines | ARGCM
  8. Morphine | C17H19NO3 | PubChem
  9. digoxin, Lanoxin: Drug Facts, Side Effects and Dosing | MedicineNet
  10. Quinine | New World Encyclopedia
  11. Herbal Drug Development | International Journal of Drug Development and Research
  12. A potential anti-tumor herbal medicine, Corilagin, inhibits ovarian cancer cell growth through blocking the TGF-β signaling pathways | BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
  13. St John's wort for major depression | Linde| K - 2008 | Cochrane Library
  14. The Benefits of Sunflower Oleodistillate (SOD) in Pediatric Dermatology | Eichenfield | 2009 | Pediatric Dermatology | Wiley Online Library
  15. Research and future trends in the pharmaceutical development of medicinal herbs from Chinese medicine | PubMed
  16. Chinese herbal medicine | Better Health Channel
  17. Chinese herbal medicine for female infertility: An updated meta-analysis | ScienceDirect
  18. Chinese herbal medicine-derived compounds for cancer therapy: A focus on hepatocellular carcinoma | ScienceDirect
  19. Complementary Therapies | Western Herbal Medicine | Cancer Council NSW
  20. Western herbal medicine | Australian Women’s Weekly | Now to Love
  21. Seeing a herbalist | National Institute of Medical Herbalists
  22. Naturopathic Medicine, Herbal Medicine, Vascular Response, Hormone Balance | Naturopathic Health, South Australia
  23. What to expect in a Chinese Herbal Medicine consultation and treatment? | Shirley Chong
  24. The formulae and biologically active ingredients of Chinese herbal medicines for the treatment of atopic dermatitis | ScienceDirect
  25. Acupuncture Melbourne, Acupuncturist, Chinese Medicine, Chinese Herbalist, Traditional Chinese Medicine | Brunswick Holistic Health
  26. The benefits of herbal medicine offering gentle treatment | WellBeing
  27. An independent regulatory body to ensure minimum standards for naturopathy and Western herbal medicine in Australia | Australian Register of Naturopaths and Herbalists
  28. Drug interactions with complementary medicines | Australian Prescriber

Frequently asked questions

Herbal medicine involves using therapeutic products derived from plant ingredients for medicinal purposes. It differs from conventional medicine, which often relies on synthetic compounds, by utilizing the healing properties of plants that have been used for centuries.

Herbal medicine is believed to be the oldest form of medicine, with prescriptions for plant-based treatments found on a Sumerian clay tablet over 4,000 years old. Its historical use is well-documented across various cultures globally.

Herbal medicine is still widely practiced today, with approximately 75% of the world's population estimated to use herbal preparations. It continues to be an integral part of traditional medicine in many cultures.

Quinine, derived from the bark of the cinchona tree, is an example of a herbal remedy used since the 17th century to treat malaria. Such historical remedies showcase the effectiveness of certain plant compounds.

Many herbal remedies have demonstrated effectiveness through evidence-based research. Ongoing studies explore the potential of developing pharmaceutical drugs from these natural remedies, validating their traditional uses.

While herbal medicine can offer therapeutic benefits, precautions should be taken, including consulting with healthcare professionals, especially when integrating it with conventional treatments. Herbal and conventional approaches can sometimes complement each other, but professional guidance is crucial for safe and effective use.

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