as taken from "Heinerman's Encyclopedia of Healing Herbs & Spices". by John Heinerman.
RULE 2 - If any herb is causing an unpleasent side effect of extreme proportions, DISCONTINUE IMMEDIATELY until the problem can be explained or rectified somehow. Remember that what may pass for so-called "healing" or "cleansing crisis" could, in fact, be life threatening. "when in doubt, do without".
RULE 3 - Learn to educate yourself on herbs before using them. You need to consult with a professional Herbalist, Homeopathic or naturopathic doctor, folk healer, or any similar person skilled in the Medicinal application of herbs. Or refer to books on medicinal plants that are reliable and trustworthy.
RULE 4 - When attempting self-treatment for any serious health problem, Several very important determinations must be made by the individual.
1.Is the problem treatable using alterantive medicines instead of conventional therapy?
2. Do you thoroughly understand the nature of the problem at hand?
3. For how long should treatment with herbs continue?
4. If confusion and uncertainty still exist, even after following these few simple guidelines, then get more information. But above all do not neglect prayer. Imploring the Goddess and Gods, who made us and plants, for further inspired guidance isn't a shameful thing at all, but rather a mark of a true believer.
RULE 5 - Generally Speaking, Herbal medicines are just that Medicine! As such, consistent herbs should only be used when body health is placed in some kind of jeopardy. Otherwise, most medicinal herbs should be left alone. There are however, some very qualified exceptions to this fundamental rule.
Exception 1. Plants to definite nutritive value may be used on a fairly consistent basis, because thier rich blend of vitamins, minerals, trace elements, amino acids, enzymes, and hormones afford the body solid protection against potential illnesses. Such herbs might include: alfalfa, beet root, chamomile, dandelion, evening primrose, flaxseed, ginger, hops, kelp, marshmellow, nettle, onion, parsley, radish, stinging nettle, turmeric, watercress, and yarrow.
Exception 2. A lingering or lifetime illness that demands the constant use of certain herbs. Goldenseal for diabetes and garlic for yeast infection are two that come to mind. Sometimes a chronic condition that could merit consistent use of a particular herb is liable to do some potential harm to the body. The prolonged consumption of juniper berry, for example, for congestive heart failure or elevated serum cholesterol will irritate the kidneys.
RULE 6 - Some herbs are easily contradicted in particular health situations, making them quite undesirable. Cayenne pepper, garlic, goldenseal, and onion are strongly hypoglycemic and should NEVER be taken individually by those suffering from low blood sugar., otherwise, they may well have unexplained fatigue and mood swings. Juniper Berry provokes uterine contractions, and in women who are pregnant, this could cause an early abortion of the developing fetus. Therefore, a certain amout of caution needs to be exercised with regard to a small group of herbs for a few health problems.
RULE 7 - Know when and how much to take of an individual herb or herbal formula. Because this is such a highly technical area involving a large number of qualifying factors. I've decided to simplify everything into an abbreviated version that I feel will icely summarize all of the important points, omitting many things that are less significant. In order to do so, I chose to create four distinct catergories into which all herbs and herbal formulas could somewhere be placed. And based on a quarter of a centruy of personal experience with these natural remedies, I've given an average recommended amount for each catergory. Dosages for children (ages 4-12) are usually one-half the amounts suggested for adults.
1. Energy/Stamina: Single herbs and herbal formulas especially designed for this catergory are best taken on an empty stomach or in between meals, usually in the morning or early afternoon. Dosages: 2-4 capsules/tablets; 10-18 drops fluid extract/tincture beneath the tongue, or 1 cup wam tea.
2. Vitality/Nutrition: Single herbs and herbal formulas intended mainly for nutritional support are best taken with meals any time of the day or night. Dosages: 4-6 capsules/tablets ; 10-15 drops fluid extract/tincture beneath the tongue or in a glass of water; or 2 cups warm or cool tea.
3. Weight Loss/Cleansing: Single herbs or herbal formulas intended to shet unwanted pounds and detoxify the system of impurities are best taken between meals. Dosages 3-5 capsules/tables; 12drops fluid extract/tincutures three times daily with glass of water; 1 cup lukewarm tea morning, noon , night. Always take a mineral supplement to ensure replacement of lost minerals and vitamins.
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