“Nature is doing her best each moment to make us well. She exists for no other end. Do not resist. With the least inclination to be well, we should not be sick.” Henry David Thoreau
A revolution is occurring in health care, transformation is in the air. The purpose of our lives and the direction of society are no longer what they were, as the basis of our collective reality and beliefs changes. A fundamental change in perspective and context is occurring throughout society and as a result much has changed in the field of herbalism and holistic healing.
As people in all fields of life explore the implications of a holistic and ecological world view, medicine is at the forefront. We have gone beyond the ideal of "treating the whole animal and not the symptoms" to begin to articulate the definition of a holistic approach to health.
There is really one healing force in existence and that is Nature herself, which means the inherent restorative power of the organism to overcome disease. Herbal medicine address the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of those who seek care. It views health as a positive state, not the absence of disease and emphasizes the uniqueness of the individual and the importance of tailoring treatment to fit each need. The promotion of health and the prevention of disease is a priority.
Herbal medicine has much to contribute to the development of a holistic health service, using healing plants provided by nature. Herbal medicine, while being a valid and effective tool, can also be part of a personal and even social transformation.
Herbs can be used freely and safely as part of one's lifestyle without thinking of them as 'medicines'. For specific health needs, their best use would be preventative -- to prevent problems appearing. There are specific herbs that strengthen and tone specific organs and systems. By using herbs it may well be possible to overcome any weakness. |