Healing plant knowledge for beginners - the first steps

Healing plant knowledge for beginners - the first steps

In a world in which we often grab synthetic solutions, more and more people are reflecting on the power of nature: medicinal plants. But how do you find the first step in this fascinating area as a beginner? Don't worry, we'll take you by the hand! In this article you will learn the basics of medicinal plant science and how you can use it safely and effectively. Regardless of whether you want to familiarize yourself for the healing effects of chamomile, the power of St. John's wort or the diverse applications of ointment - there is something for everyone here. But be careful: the focus is not only on the effects, but also security. How do you recognize side effects and what should you consider when dosing? Let us immerse yourself in the world of medicinal plants and ventilate the secrets that have been handed down for centuries!

Foundations of the medicinal plant science for beginners

Medicinal plant science is a fascinating field that includes both traditional and modern medical approaches. This discipline deals with the use of plants for the treatment of diseases and the promotion of health. The use of medicinal plants ranges from antiquity to today and is firmly anchored in many cultures. Here are some basic aspects that beginners should consider.

First of all, it is important to know that not all plants are equivalent. The effectiveness and safety of a medicinal plant often depend on various factors, including type, cultivation, harvesting, processing and preparation. The often used medicinal plants include:

• chamomile (matricaria chamomilla)
• St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum)
• peppermint (mentha piperita)
• Echinacea (Echinacea Purpurea)
• lavender (lavandula angustifolia)

Another important point is the knowledge of the chemical ingredients of the plants. These substances are responsible for the healing properties and can vary depending on the plant, growing conditions and processing. For example, St. John's wort contains hypericin that can have an antidepressant effect while chamomile offers anti -inflammatory flavonoids.

The preparation types also play a crucial role. Medicinal plants can be taken in different forms:

For beginners, it is advisable to first focus on proven plants and to find out about their areas of application, effects and possible side effects. A good specialist book or reputable website can offer valuable information here. It is also advisable to discuss yourself before using medicinal plants with an expert, such as a naturopath or pharmacist.

application and dosage of medicinal plants in practice

The application and dosage of medicinal plants require precise knowledge in order to achieve the desired therapeutic effects and minimize risks. Medicinal plants can be used in different forms, including teas, tinctures, extracts and tablets. The choice of dosage form affects both the effect and the dosage.

The dosage depends on several factors, including the plant itself, the individual situation of the patient and the aim of therapy. Some medicinal plants have traditionally recommended dosage spans that are defined in scientific guidelines. The following applies to effective application:

• The use of dried medicinal plants in the form of teas usually requires a dosage of 2 to 4 grams per cup of water.
• tinctures are taken in drop shape, with 20 to 30 drops being recommended up to three times a day.
• In the case of extracts, the doses are often strongly concentrated, so that 0.5 to 2 milliliters can already be sufficient per intake.

Some medicinal plants have specific effects, and it is important to take them into account when dosing. For example, valerian usually requires a higher dosage than St. John's wort to promote sleep, which treats mood disorders. It is important to consider the individual sensitivity and potential interactions with other medication.

Table 1 offers an overview of common medicinal plants, their application and recommended doses:

The individual adjustment of the dosage is essential, precisely because every body reacts differently. The dosage should be chosen more carefully, especially in older people or patients with chronic diseases. The importance of accompanying therapy by specialist staff, such as a herbal therapist or a doctor, cannot be assessed highly enough. In the event of uncertainties, specific specialist books or guidelines, such as those of German Society for Phytotherapy , valuable information sources.

Another important topic is the remote selection of medicinal plants. Plants from controlled cultivation often guarantee consistent quality, while plants from wild growth can have a variable concentration of active ingredients. Therefore, the origin of the plants should also be taken into account when using it in practice.

Security and side effects: Important information for the use of medicinal plants

The use of medicinal plants bides both opportunities and risks. The safety of the application depends on many factors, including the type of plant, the dosage, the form of application and individual health states of the user. Some medicinal plants can be toxic in high doses or cause interactions with other medication. Therefore, it is essential to be clear about potential side effects and interactions.

are one of the most common side effects of medicinal plants:

• abdominal pain and stomach complaints
• rashes or allergic reactions
• dizziness or headache
• digestive disorders
• environmental or nutritional interactions

In order to minimize risks, it is advisable to do a targeted research before using medicinal plants and, if necessary, consult an expert. A doctor or an experienced naturopath can provide valuable information on the correct application and dosage. In addition, users should pay attention to the quality and origin of the products, since contaminated or incorrectly labeled preparations can represent health risks.

In addition, the use of medicinal plants is not equally effective for everyone; Individual differences in metabolism and state of health play a major role. Every body reacts differently, and what is a healing method for one user can be problematic for another. Therefore, it is important to slowly treat yourself to new remedies and to carefully observe your own reaction. An open and informed handling of medicinal plants can not only increase security, but also strengthen trust in their healing effects.

sources and further literature

references

• Seeger, E. (2010). medicinal plants: compendium of phytotherapy . 5. Edition. Georg Thieme Verlag.
• Wagner, H., & Rimpler, H. (2008). aura: medicinal plant science . Scientific publishing company.

Studies

• Blessing, O., & Dursun, O. (2019). "The effect of phytotherapeutic means on the immune system: review." Planta Medica , 85 (2), 102-113.
• Albert, A., & Kuhlmann, W. (2021). "Safety assessment of medicinal plants and their side effects." phytotherapy , 19 (3), 155-168.

further literature

• Böhm, C. (2015). naturopathy for beginners: a practical guide . Menssana Verlag.
• Bruni, R. (2018). The healing power of plants: Introduction to Phytotherapy . Narayana Verlag.