theconnectionsnj.com HEALTH & WELLNESS PAGE 29 tions, boosts immune system. • FENUGREEK- Reduces fever and inflammations • GINKO BILOBA- Helps with memory and blood circulation • GINSENG- Reduces fatigue, increases energy levels • GOLDEN SEAL- Great for colds, clears mucus and sinuses • HAWTHORNE- Lowers blood pressure, strong heart tonic • OREGANO- Drastically reduces viral activity-especially oil form • PEPPERMINT- Reduces headaches (especially with hangovers), dizziness, indigestion • ROSEMARY- Naturally attacks viruses, aids digestion • SAW PALMETTO- Helps bladder, prostate, impotence issues • ST JOHN’S WORT- Fights depression and anxiety, insomnia • UVA URSI- Assists genitourinary organs, cystitis, gravel • VALERIAN- Settles nerves & anxiety, insomnia I’ve experienced good results as needed with the above list, but you can also do your own research for additional herbal remedies to try. There are many besides the above options, as well. Work with an herbalist and naturopathic doctor for formulations specific to what your own body needs. Some Important Guidelines to Remember • Always consult with your health care provider to make sure an herbal doesn’t interact with your prescriptions. • Educate yourself! Learn as much as you can about the herbal you want to take. • Work with a licensed herbalist or naturopathic doctor. Do not self-diagnose! • Research the company whose herbs you are taking. • Follow label instructions carefully. • Watch for any side effects or allergic reactions. Irene C. Lebbad, LCSW The Center for Intrapersonal Wellness, LLC 2 North Rd, Ste. 3 Warren, NJ 07059 erbs have been part of nature’s medicine chest for thousands of years, with origins in ancient cultures. The philosophy and use of herbal remedies involve utilizing the medicinal properties of plants to treat illness and enhance general health and well-being. Herbal medicines are growing faster than any other alternative therapy. Although the pharmaceuticals have a place in our medicine chest, herbal remedies will take the time necessary to allow our bodies to adapt and heal naturally in the way nature intended. They provide an important health care alternative based on a more holistic and affordable approach to wellness. Interestingly, many plants and natural sources form the basis of today’s modern medicine and contribute largely to commercial drug preparations. Although many prescription medications and over-the-counter medicines are made from purified plant products approved by the FDA, the FDA considers herbals as food, not medicine. Herbal Characteristics Herbals may contain entire plants or plant parts and come in many forms. They can be dried, chopped, powdered, in capsules, or liquid extracts. They can be bitter or sweet. We must therefore always bear in mind that some herbs have very potent ingredients and should be taken with the same level of caution as pharmaceutical medications. With the understanding that herbal medicine aims to return the body to a state of natural balance so that it can heal itself, different herbs act on different systems of the body. Here are some medicinal uses for specific herbs. It is by no means a complete list, but I’ve included the commonly used and efficacious remedies here. Some Common Herbals • ASHWAGANDHA- Energy boost, stress reduction • CHAMOMILE- Relaxant, calming, sleep aid • DONG QUAI- Balances female hormones, reduces PMS, Menopause symptoms • ECHINACEA- Fights colds and infec- HEALTH HOTLINE Health is Wealth: Herbals H *Reiki Master healing sessions available* 2 North Rd, Suite 3, Warren, NJ 07059 www.intrapersonalwellnessllc.com Please call or email: Irene Lebbad, MSW, LCSW, CIMHP 908.963.7645 Irene.lebbad@gmail.com MindBodySpiritBlog.com Find us on Instagram @mind_body_spirit_blog Visit MindBodySpiritBlog.com to further your learning , LLC families
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