Natural remedies
Natural remedies
Natural remedies (pronunciation: /ˈnætʃ(ə)rəl 'remədē/), also known as herbal medicine or phytotherapy, refers to the use of plants' seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes. The etymology of the term 'natural remedies' is derived from the Latin word 'natura' meaning birth, character, and 'remedium' meaning healing.
History
The use of plants for healing purposes predates recorded history and forms the origin of much of modern medicine. Many conventional drugs originate from plant sources: a century ago, most of the few effective drugs were plant-based.
Types of Natural Remedies
There are several types of natural remedies, including:
- Herbalism: The study of botany and use of plants intended for medicinal purposes or for supplementing a diet.
- Homeopathy: A system of alternative medicine that treats a disease with minute doses of natural substances.
- Naturopathy: A system of treatment that relies on natural remedies, such as sunlight and air, and on noninvasive procedures.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine: A broad range of medicine practices sharing common concepts which have been developed in China and are based on a tradition of more than 2,000 years.
Usage
Natural remedies are used for a variety of common conditions, such as allergies, chronic fatigue, digestive disorders, thyroid disorders, depression, and insomnia. They are also used for skin disorders, including psoriasis and eczema.
Safety and Precautions
While natural remedies can be very effective, they are not without risks. It's important to do your research and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any herbal remedies. Some herbs can interact with prescription or over-the-counter medicines, and taking too much of certain herbs can lead to poisoning or, in rare cases, death.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Natural remedies
- Wikipedia's article - Natural remedies
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