Basics of phytotherapy

Basics of phytotherapy

Basics of phytotherapy

Phytotherapy is a form of treatment based on the use of vegetable drugs. The word "Phyto" comes from the Greek and means plant, while "therapy" describes the treatment of diseases. In phytotherapy, plant extracts or their components are used to relieve symptoms and to promote health. This form of therapy has a long history and is used in many cultures around the world. This article explains the basics of phytotherapy and gives an overview of the applications and advantages.

The history of phytotherapy

The use of plants for the treatment of diseases has a tradition of millennia. Plant extracts were already used for medical purposes in ancient Egypt. The use of medicinal plants also plays an important role in traditional Chinese medicine and in Ayurveda, Indian healing art. During the Middle Ages, herbs and medicinal plants in Europe were used by herbalists and monks. Over time, scientific knowledge about the active ingredients in the plants have increasingly been gained and phytotherapy developed into a recognized form of medical therapy.

Mode of action of phytotherapy

Plants contain a variety of chemical compounds that can have a medical effect. In phytotherapy, the ingredients of the plants are primarily used, which are considered effective and tolerated. These ingredients can be, for example, essential oils, flavonoids, tannins or alkaloids. Each plant has an individual composition of these active ingredients, which is responsible for its specific medical effect.

Areas of application of phytotherapy

Phytotherapy is used for a variety of symptoms and diseases. It can treat both acute and chronic diseases. The most common areas of application include:

1. Colds and flu infections: vegetable preparations can relieve the symptoms of colds and strengthen the immune system.
2. Digestive complaints: Plant extracts are used to treat gastrointestinal complaints such as heartburn, flatulence or diarrhea.
3. Skin diseases: plant -based ointments or creams can help with skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis or acne.
4. Sleep disorders: Certain plant extracts have sedative properties and can be used for sleep disorders.
5. Women's complaints: Certain plant extracts are used to relieve menstrual complaints or menopause.
6. Nervous complaints: plant extracts have calming properties and can help with stress, anxiety, or nervous unrest.

It is important to note that phytotherapy does not promise miracle healing and cannot be sufficient for serious illnesses alone. It should always be used in consultation with a doctor or naturopath.

Advantages of phytotherapy

Phytotherapy offers several advantages compared to conventional forms of therapy:

1. Natural ingredients: The plant extracts in phytotherapy contain natural active ingredients that are often better tolerated by the body than synthetic substances.
2. Holistic approach: phytotherapy looks at the patient as a whole and aims to restore the balance in the body instead of just treating the symptoms.
3. Less side effects: vegetable medicines often have fewer side effects compared to synthetically produced medication.
4. Long -term effect: Phytotherapy can help treat the causes of complaints instead of just suppressing the symptoms, which can lead to improvement in health in the long term.

Side effects and contraindications

Although phytotherapy is generally considered safe and well tolerated, vegetable medicines can also have side effects. Some people are sensitive to certain plant extracts, and allergic reactions or gastrointestinal complaints can occur. If side effects occur, taking the vegetable drug should be canceled.

In addition, there are certain contraindications for the use of vegetable drugs. Pregnant, breastfeeding women, children and people with certain previous illnesses should exercise caution and consult a doctor or alternative practitioner before application.

Conclusion

Phytotherapy is a natural and holistic form of treatment based on the use of plant extracts. It has a long history and is used worldwide to relieve symptoms and to promote health. Phytotherapy offers several advantages compared to conventional forms of therapy and can be used in a variety of symptoms. Nevertheless, it is important to be aware that vegetable medicines can have side effects and that the application should be used in consultation with a doctor or alternative practitioner.