Why Your Herbal Remedies Might Not Be “Working”…
Our Top Recommendations For Herbal Resources & Products To Get Started
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Best All-Around Herbal Supplier: Mountain Rose Herbs
Best Online Herbalist Education: The Herbal Academy
Best Herbal Beginner’s Guide: Rosemary Gladstar's Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide
Introduction
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Have you ever tested a remedy that didn't quite live up to your hopes and expectations? Maybe you heard rave reviews about a certain herb, but your review thus far is…uninspiring. It's a situation that can make even the most eager herbal newcomer lose faith in the effectiveness of herbal solutions like teas, tinctures, or other herbal supplementation. You may have started with all the confidence in the world, but somewhere along your journey; maybe halfway through a tincture bottle or a couple days in to a daily cup of tea…you lost hope of it ever working for you. In this blog post we will be exploring 3 primary reasons why your herbal remedies may not be working for you, troubleshooting a few common errors and pointing you in the direction of a more successful herbal wellness journey.
So don’t give up on that herb you were so excited about quite yet! Some of these may seem very basic, but in many ways, thats the beauty of herbs! Sometimes our brains want to make it more complicated than it really is, so breathe a sigh of relief, its easier than you might think, and join us as we delve into the reasons why your herbal treatments might not be producing the outcomes you anticipate.
Time is of the essence
We all know it…here in the USA we live in a society fixated on quick solutions and instant gratification. Much of this has permeated into the philosophy of our modern healthcare system, fast-food enterprises, and almost in every aspect of life. It is so prevalent we unconsciously operate in this “way of life,” without much effort. But if you are reading this, perhaps the change of pace when it comes to natural herbal remedies is a refreshing shift to your health patterns, and exactly what you’re looking for. While we’ve become accustomed to taking a pill and anticipating alleviation, there’s something grounding and rewarding about tuning into your body, nature and ancient wisdom; herbs tend to have a more gradual and variable impact due to a variety factors, one of which is that herbs possess a very short half-lifes chemically as they are broken down in the body.
This leads us to the subject of time. How often you take your herbal remedies, and when you might be taking it is of vital importance and just might be why you aren’t experiencing the hopeful affects of this natural remedy.
Some herbs such as peppermint for aiding digestion or lavender for promoting relaxation can deliver results quite swiftly while others targeting enduring or deeper seated issues necessitate regular use, over weeks or even months before their complete effects manifest themselves fully and noticeably. This subtle transformation might be overlooked if you're anticipating drastic changes overnight right?
Using another metaphor, taking your herbal wellness products is like constructing a house. You can't anticipate building right after the foundation is laid down, you have to wait for the foundation to be set! In the same way natural remedies usually focus on establishing a strong base for overall health and harmony. Herbal wellness products could be gently detoxifying your system, replenishing depleted tissues or aiding your body’s inherit healing mechanisms and immune system. These transformations might not be instantly noticeable but they’re setting the stage for enduring well being.
Don't forget that even small changes count as progress too – whether its feeling more energetic, getting more sleep or experiencing improved mood or symptoms in certain areas. It's helpful to maintain a journal to monitor your journey and be open, to trying out herbs and doses with the advice of a knowledgeable herbalist.
Consistency, your ally in herbal wellness
In the realm of herbal medicine, it's crucial to shift our perspective.
Natural remedies don't work the same for everyone. It's as individual as you are! Its important to consider each herbs individual properties when determining the right dosage and frequency for best results. Factors like age, lifestyle and genetics all play a role in how herbal remedies work for you. With nonconforming usage it can be hard to figure out whether the herbs are not effective themselves or its just because you're not using them regularly enough.
Finding Your Natural Flow, with Herbs
Staying consistent is key to getting the most out of herbs without feeling burdened by it all. Integrating them into your life and forming lasting habits can really make a difference in your overall well being journey! If you need some guidance, in staying focused and committed consider these items below:
Reminders: Don't forget to keep track of your schedule with reminders, like setting alarms or using apps that can help you remember when its time to connect with your herbal companions.
Habit Stacking: Try the strategy of habit stacking to boost your routine by connecting it with something you do regularly such, as brushing your teeth or savoring your morning coffee or filling up your water bottle for the day (my preferred way of always getting all my herbs and electrolytes in!).
Convenience: Opt for options that suit your daily routine; whether it's capsules for when you're out and about or tinctures for a speedy pick me up or perhaps soothing teas, for a relaxing break. Consider an infuser if trying to work with loose leaf tea to keep messes at bay and simplify the process.
Start Off Right: Start off slowly and steadily by incorporating a couple of herbs then gradually introduce more as you get into the flow of things.
Take Notes: Document your progress by maintaining a journal where you jot down the herbs you consume and any changes, in how you feel emotionally over time so you can adjust your daily regimen accordingly."
The Importance of Being Patient, in Achieving Wellness
Using remedies is like running a marathon rather than a sprint. It requires patience and dedication to help your body find its equilibrium again. Real health isn't just reaching a goal; it's about the process of taking care of yourself along the way. Stay dedicated to your regimen with regularity and create a supportive environment for your herbal helpers to thrive. Endurance and perseverance WILL lead to a change in your character. Keep in mind that each consistent effort you make with remedies brings you one step closer, to a healthier and livelier version of YOU.
Personalized Herbal Care: You Have Unique Needs
It's easy to get excited when a friend shares their glowing testimonial about an herb that seemingly cured all their ailments. However, it's important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another. We each possess a unique constitution, a complex interplay of physical, emotional, and energetic factors that influence how our bodies respond to herbs.
Even subtle differences in symptoms can point to underlying imbalances that require a tailored approach. For example, two people might both experience headaches, but one might be due to tension, while the other could stem from allergens. The same herb is unlikely to address both root causes effectively.
Don't hesitate to experiment and explore different herbs to find what resonates best with your body. It's a journey of self-discovery, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Pay attention to how your body responds to each herb, and don't be afraid to adjust your approach as needed.
Remember, herbalism is a journey of empowerment and self-care. By embracing your unique needs and seeking personalized guidance, you can unlock the full potential of herbs and embark on a path to vibrant health and well-being.
CONCLUSION
As you can see, using herbs effectively isn’t necessarily hard…but it does require intentionality, personal awareness and commitment to the process. If there’s one thing I want to encourage you in as you begin your herbal endeavors, its to embrace not only how herbs can benefit your physical health, but also how it shapes your character as you become more consistent and intentional with your choices, more patient with your body and its natural processes, and more honoring and in awe of the nature all around you.
Keep Growing,
Erin & Kody
