Herbs and Why They Work

As long as mankind has walked the earth, we have relied on natures abundance to cure our ills. The earliest recordings of man using plants for medicinal purposes is around 1550 BC.
Aristotle and Hippo-crates the early "doctors" or "Medicine Men" developed systems of medicine using herbs.
Today 25% of prescription drugs and 60% of our over the counter medicines are produced from plants. For example the common aspirin is from willow bark.
Herbalists believe that plants are a perfect expression of nature and represent balance. For deep healing to take place in our natural body it is necessary to use the natural elements found in plants that grow in the wild. Herbalism looks to treat the whole person not just a symptom.
First of all, the body needs to be cleansed and eliminate toxins. After this, herbs are used to stimulate the body's self-healing powers and remove the underlying cause of illness. Then the herbs are used to nourish and tone all the organs and systems of the body from the inside out.
Herbs can also be dangerous if not used properly, if you choose to follow a natural approach to your health with herbs make sure you are dealing with a trained herbalist or if you are interested in trying a natural herb to replace an over the counter product make sure you go to a reputable source and that you educate yourself on the properties of the herb and how it works in the body.

Herbalism: How does it work?
The Facts:
Beyond our use of them in cooking, herbs have been used as a potent form of medicine for centuries by the Chinese, Native Americans and Shamans, to name a few.
Alongside advances in medical science, they still remain one of the most widely prescribed remedies throughout the world and have proved to be an effective treatment for a variety of acute and chronic conditions.
Statistics say they are used safely and successfully by 80pc of the world's population today. In the UK alone over £40m a year is spent on over-the-counter herbal products.
Remedies include bottled tinctures, fresh, dried or powdered plant elements, herbal infusions, teas, compresses, poultices and ointments.
The effect of the herbs differ, but the general purpose is to improve and strengthen the overall functioning of a particular organ or system.
The Evidence:
Herbs are used for a variety of ailments including digestive problems including IBS, skin complaints, asthma, chronic fatigue, urinary and gynaecological problems, premenstrual and menopausal syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and migraine. The best known clinical trials regarding herbalism have been on the effectiveness of St John's Wort in treating mild to moderate depression.
Other studies show echinacea to be effective on boosting the immune system. In the EU, all herbal medicines must have a proven track record of safety. As herbs can be toxic ,it is essential to consult a qualified medical herbalist.
- Niamh Cooper

Dances With Tea!

I recently heard about a tea that is called "The Dancing Tea" This tea plant is from Thailand and is a cross between two different species of teas. It is also known as the Telegraph Plant because it is said that this plant responds to music, whistling, singing, gentle talking and even meditation. The plant sways to the sound of gentle talk or music. A lot of people believe that plants respond to loving care and the sounds of voice and music now we are able to actually see a plant responding to positive energy with movement. Extracts from this tea has been used since ancient times in Thailand as a preventive from several diseases. It is also know as the anti-aging tea and is very high in anti-oxidants.

The Healing Properties of Colors

Does color play a role in our physical well being? I know for me color can certainly effect my mood from calm to happy etc. I even have a list of colors I call happy colors. Here are some definitions of color that can perhaps have healing powers. You may also gain some insight into why you are attracted to certain colors.
Color usually has to be applied in large areas in order to affect someone. Still, there are some generalities which you may wish to keep in mind.BLACK is supposed to ward off evil, I don't think it would be a good color for a depressed person. For the bold, it makes a statement of mystery and strength.RED is a joyful, purifying color. It is a dynamic color which promotes courage and passion. Add red when energy and self-esteem is needed.ORANGE has many of the attributes of red, like warmth and vitality, but is less aggressive in nature. It is useful in blocking stagnation and promoting creativity. Good for stimulating circulation and blood flow in the body.PINK is said to heal broken hearts and other emotional wounds. It is also a color for relaxation. The most beneficial pinks are the darker tones of bubble-gum and magenta.YELLOW stimulates the mind and clears thoughts. Use for digestive problems and allergies, but avoid yellows with a green tone. Instead, use a bright, clear yellow.PURPLE is considered a color of the divine. It stimulates the mind and the state of imagination and creativity. The use of violet can help one turn daydreams into reality by enhancing this flow. Good for balancing the energies in general.BLUE brings calm and peace. It brings us inward and allows us a deeper understanding of our inner being. It allows us to channel the thoughts which best lead to actualization without being confused or side tracked by unimportant thoughts that would otherwise clutter the pathway.GREEN promotes growth and general healing. Green is the color of growth and expansion of both mind and spirit. It creates a peaceful feeling and can be used to relieve tension and stress.TURQUOISE is an ancient color that has been used for centuries and by all cultures throughout the world. Turquoise is used to express individuality and creativity. It reduces toxins in the body, and adds new life to old projects. It offers freedom from whatever has been holding one back.