Phytotherapy is the use of plants in different forms: herbal teas, capsules or tinctures for prevention and treatment.
More than 2,500 years ago, Hippocrates, the father of medicine, extolled the healing properties of herbs.
Today, herbs are an integral part of several traditional medicines, such as traditional Chinese medicine, which often uses varying amounts of plants to prepare “potions.”
Although still controversial in some quarters, phytotherapy is universally accepted: It is estimated that nearly 25 percent of all medicines are made from plants. Humans have been experimenting with remedies from the plant world. Some have even become great classics of modern pharmacopoeia: How many people today know that morphine is extracted from the poppy and aspirin from the willow?
Aromatic herbs have long been known locally. Today, they are very common in the kitchen. In addition to their delicious aroma, they also contain active ingredients that have a direct biological effect on the body. Each has its own healing properties and thus contributes to the health of those who consume them: antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, digestive, antioxidant.
Advantages of Phenols and Polyphenols
Studies have attempted to measure the effect of dietary antioxidants on the prevention of various diseases. One of them shows that a diet rich in antioxidants can make “younger” people live longer. French study SU.VI. Max has shown that intake of antioxidants can reduce the risk of cancer in men by more than 30%. The compounds found in aromatic herbs responsible for their antioxidant capacity are phenols and polyphenols.
Certain health experts routinely vilify phytotherapy. In France, the profession of herbalist was abolished even under the Vichy regime in 1941. Today, it is illegal for anyone who wants to sell herbs and give advice on their therapeutic uses. The profession of herbalist is still legal in Canada, and today the Society of Herbalists, which includes approximately 300 members, is working to have the profession recognized.
An inconvenient remedy…
Is it because herbal medicines are eclipsing the big pharma industry and labs? Or to protect citizens from its powerful influence? Of course, herbs are not a cure-all. Also, “natural” doesn’t mean “non-hazardous”: the line between effectiveness and toxicity can still sometimes be blurry. The use of St. John’s wort, a natural antidepressant, has also recently been the subject of legislation.
Phytotherapy is a great option for those who are somewhat skeptical of modern medicines or who are allergic to synthetic ingredients. And this alternative is on the rise! The recurring scandals surrounding the drugs (Mediator, Acomplia, Cerivastatin, etc.) and the popularity of organic products has brought it back to the forefront. Especially since the medical use of herbs is known to heal deeply, not just symptoms.
A few rules to follow
Beware of self-medication, always consult your doctor or pharmacist if in doubt.
– Do not combine plants together without professional advice.
– Herbal remedies should be taken with caution during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
– Before treating children with herbal remedies, a doctor’s opinion must be sought.
– Report any herbal treatments to your doctor and pharmacist, drug interactions with herbal products may occur.
