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Herbal Medicine
Annmaree Miller ATMS, AIMA, ACNEM, QNC
Human cultures throughout history have incorporated in their daily lives plants and herbs in one form of another. Plants literally became quintessential to good health, whether it be for their particular aroma's, medicinal application and even for culinary purposes and uses in beverages. Through discovery and usages resulting from a gradual trial and error process the beginnings of the first applied medicine practices evolved, and as this ever growing knowledge base increased over the generations it eventually led into the specialised role of the herbalist which in turn brought about the establishment of the `apothecary' being the first form of chemist. This progression finally giving birth to the modern science of `phytotherapy'.
An interesting noteworthy point is that without exception the use of herbs to treat sickness and disease is universal amongst all indigenous cultures in non-industrialised nations. Apart from self discovery humans learned by observation that many animals by instinct would eat plants which were NOT common to their natural diets to purge themselves of bodily toxins and to aid their own health.
Modern methods of use: Herbs may be used internally or externally depending on individual need. Uses and or applications can range from culinary use in cooking, to lifestyle choice uses such as teas, infusions or decoctions etc., to the medicinal use of extracts, tinctures, creams, poultices, tablets or capsules. In brief there are many ways in which herbs can be administered which include:
In the field of herbal medicine it is a wise practice to consult a qualified practitioner as the effect of certain herbal medications can have an adverse reaction when combined with some prescription and over the counter pharmaceutical drug preparations.
A more thorough database of information regarding herb usage can be garnered from the website of the
University of Maryland Medical Center.
Profile: Annmaree Miller ATMS, AIMA, ACNEM, QNC
Annmaree is a professional herbalist, iridologist, masseuse, yoga teacher and clinical nurse, and shows an absolute passion for learning which has resulted in quite an impressive knowledge base on this (herbal medicine) and other subjects. Annmaree is the owner and operator of Herb Heaven - the Holistic Healing Centre in Mudgeeraba, Queensland.
Annmaree self produces a quarterly newsletter entitled `The Herbal Planet' which she has kindly given permission for us to make available as follows:
The Herbal Planet: Spring 07 edition / Peace Mirrors Peace
[Part 1]
[Part 2] 
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