When Herbal Medicine Doesn't Work

Ezekiel 47:12 "...and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine."

A few people have told me they have given up on herbal medicine because it "just doesn't work for me."

There are many reasons why herbal medicine may not be working for someone.

Wrong Dosage. Most OTC herbal products have therapeutic dosage recommendations on them. This is different than medicinal dosages which are often much higher. Other factors impacting dosage are a person's health condition, other supplements and medications being taken, age and especially weight. Most herbal dosages are for people weighing 150-170 lbs. This is why it is important to have a knowledgeable herbalist assist you with choosing herbs and establishing dosages.

Impotent Herbs. If the herbs are not grown, harvested, processed and packaged properly, they will not be potent. I had much better success in treating for illness and injury when I started buying my herbs and testing them for potency myself.

Herbal Formulas Whose Ingredients Counteract Each Other. I have come across many herbal formulations with ingredients which oppose each other. The most effective formulations I have used include three to six herbs whose medicinal properties support each other.

Misunderstanding How Herbs Work. While it is common to see some relief quickly while using herbs, most can take three to six months or longer to see any changes. Unlike most conventional medicine, herbs do not mask symptoms. Herbs work to heal and restore body function which can take some time to accomplish.

Taking Too Many Herbs and Vitamins. This puts a strain on the person's body and can actually cause health problems. A good rule of thumb: Work on the most serious ailment first.

Neglecting Diet, Exercise, Elimination and Rest. If you neglect these areas, herbal supplements are going to have a hard time correcting the problems you are having.

Growth hormones, antibiotics and bacteria in our meat and milk, pesticides in our vegetables, chemicals in our air and water all add up to toxic stress on the body. The number one way to restore health is to eat a diet consisting of healthy, natural and easily assimilated foods. Foods closest to the way they are in nature are the ones filled with nutrients and beneficial enzymes.

Exercise increases the flow of blood to all organs. The blood is where the nutrients that bring healing are carried. Exercise also helps improve lymph gland drainage as well as organ tone and function. Certain vitamins and minerals are better assimulated with exercise.

Your body has been made to eliminate toxins through sweat, bowel movements and urine. You need to assist your body in removing these toxins. I knew a person who had chronic migraine headaches. This person did not like to have a bowel movement any where except at home and suppressed their urges. I encouraged them to go when they felt the urge every time. Following my advice, the headaches stopped. They also slept better and had more energy than before.

Obtaining proper rest seems to be an issue for many people. Your body needs it to work properly and heal itself. You will steadily decline in health if you do not allow yourself enough rest. Adult sleep needs vary widely per person and change with age, health and circumstance. If you are irritable, stressed, chronically forgetful, dazed, or just tired often, adjust your sleep times.

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