THE
GUIDE TO
HERBAL R EMEDIES
Dear Reader,
As a devotee of herbal medicine and a self-proclaimed amateur herbalist, I wa s delighted to take on the task of writing this book. At la st, Id have a chance to talk about the remedies that had been a staple in my medicine cabinet for so many years. Finally, the rest of the world could know the secrets of herbalism.
But as a professional writer and journalist, I approached the subject with a decidedly different attitude: What are these things, really? Whos using them, and why? Do they work? Are they safe? And can the average Joe or Jane find them in the average herb shop or health food store? Im happy to report that Ive achieved both goals: to get the word out about the many benefits of using herbs, and to explain the traditional uses, supporting research and other evidence, safety concerns, modern uses, and availability of each. I hope youll agree.
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THE
GUIDE TO
HERBAL
REMEDIES
An easy-to-use reference for natural health care
Martha Schindler Connors with Larry Altshuler, MD
This book is dedicated to my husband, Don, who is my
inspiration in all things (including herbs).
Copyright 2009 by F+W Media, Inc. All rights reserved.
This book, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced
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are made for brief excerpts used in published reviews.
An Everything Series Book.
Everything and everything.com are registered trademarks of F+W Media, Inc.
Published by Adams Media, a division of F+W Media, Inc.
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ISBN 10: 1-59869-988-1
ISBN 13: 978-1-59869-988-3
Printed in the United States of America.
J I H G F E D C B A
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This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information with regard to the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional advice. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.
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The Everything Guide to Herbal Remedies is intended as a reference volume only, not as a medical manual. In light of the complex, individual, and specific nature of health problems, this book is not intended to replace professional medical advice. The ideas, procedures, and suggestions in this book are intended to supplement, not replace, the advice of a trained medical professional. Consult your physician before adopting the suggestions in this book, as well as about any condition that may require diagnosis or medical attention. The author and publisher disclaim any liability arising directly or indirectly from the use of this book.
Acknowledgments
Many thanks to Rosemary Gladstar and the other herbalists, researchers, doctors, and others who helped me pull this book together.
Top Ten Ways to Ease Herbs into Your Health Care Routine
Add antioxidant foods (like tomatoes and spinach) and herbs and spices (like turmeric and rosemary) to your pantry.
Toss the hydrogen peroxide and get some tea tree oil instead.
Visit an herb shop and check out the bulk herb section. Open each jar, give it a good sniff, and go home with at least one bag of dried plant matter (see for tips on what to do with it).
Ease yourself to sleep with a massage using lavender essential oil (you might need a partner for this one).
Add some digestion-friendly flaxseeds to your oatmeal.
Take a walk (and some lemon balm) the next time youre feeling stressed.
Give your hair color a boost with a rinse made with chamomile or black tea.
Substitute a cup of mate or rooibos tea for your usual morning coffee.