If you thought that treatment with herbal medications is a latest rage in a section of the society, you are utterly mistaken. In fact, seeds of different herbs have been found in some cave dwellings of primitive men that existed as many as 500,000 years back. This is an indication of the fact that pre-historic man used different herbs not only for food, but also to cure them of various ailments.
Looking back, you will find that way back in 3500 B.C., the Egyptians undertook researches on herbs and used them for both religious as well as therapeutic purposes. Some time later, around 2500 B.C., the Chinese undertook organized research with herbs. Written documents listing the uses of herbs and dating back to 100 B.C. have been discovered in China.
During the Roman era, naturalist, scholar, historian and writer Pliny the Elder documented a lengthy account regarding the therapeutic properties of herbs and their uses. Later, in the early days of the Christen period, physician Galen, who is still respected in contemporary medical history, also investigated into the uses and consequences of herbs.
Although it may appear to be incredible, the fact remains that the discovery of America is related to the Western civilization’s exploration for easy access to exceptional species and herbs. When Columbus mistakenly landed in the West Indies, he was actually expecting to find new routes for trade in these items. And his efforts led to the commencement of the Age of Exploration unveiling an entire New World.
By the 17th and 18th centuries, a number of Europeans, including Nicholas Culpepper and Carl Linnaeus, had already classified several herbs and named them using Latin terms with a view to avoid any confusion with herbs having various names and make it easy to even them out.
It is unfortunate to note that in due course, western medicine sidetracked ‘herbs’ and instead focused on curing ailments with chemicals. Nevertheless, it is fascinating to know that numerous chemicals and medical formulations developed during the subsequent period actually have their origins on active elements found in plants and herbs.
The good news is that modern-day healthy lifestyles are once again resorting to the ancient herbal medications and supplements for a holistic attitude towards life. Interestingly enough, herbs like ginseng, ginkgo and others have never been as extensively used as they are being today.
In addition to their therapeutic uses, several herbs have traditionally been used for culinary purposes. It is possible to think of a life devoid of thyme, basil, rosemary and several other herbs that we prefer to be included in our gastronomy?
Believe it or not, having a herbal garden at your place is a simple and enjoyable way to include healthy, fresh foods and nourishments in your routine diets. Always remember that including organic herbs and plants in your meals ensures a healthy living.
In fact, if you do not have your own herbal garden, you may also purchase herbal products and adding them to your dishes will serve more than just a medication or spice. Well, just imagine the numerous uses of herbs, including in dried decorations and aromatic bouquets. In fact, the entire idea of aromatherapy is based on fresh and organic herbs!
The human experience cannot be complete without herbs. Present-day foods, both over-prepared for convenience as well as fast foods have yet not been able to offer us with the benefits that the natural herbs have and which humans have enjoyed and used to balance their lives forever.
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