Welcome to Nutritional Herbalism. This is an introductory class for the beginning herbalist where you will learn some basic concepts starting with the following:
How the Body Uses the Herbs We Take
People have used herbs for centuries as both food and medicine. They are natural and safe to use ONLY if you understand the actions they take in the body, and if your constitution is able to handle that action.
Degree of Action or Concentration
1st Degree = FOODS (macronutrients) can be consumed in large amounts with no noticeable effect on the body.
2nd Degree = MEDICINAL FOODS (garnish, accent and flavoring foods) have a mild effect on the body and they are safe to use on a regular basis as a dietary supplement.
3rd Degree = MEDICINES (used to balance our bodies when they are sick) they should not be taken over a long period of time.
4th Degree = DRUGS/POISONS (these are herbs that can kill or cause serious damage in one single overdose.
Why Should We Use Herbs?
1. To Cleanse the body
2. Regulate our system
3. Nutrition
4. Raise the Energy Levels in the Body
5. Stimulate our Immune system
Herb Types
You will study the different herb types. Learn which herbs act as an Analgesic, Antibiotic, Emetic, Hepatic and more.
Herbal Preparations
You will learn how to use herbs in different applications such as; Bolus, Compress, Decoction, Extracts, Infusion, Ointments, Oils, Poultice, Capsules and more.
SAMPLE OF EXERCISES FOR LESSON 1
Foods and herbs have a direct action on our bodies and it is important for us to understand these actions when we work towards wellness. List the "4 Degree''''s of Action" or concentrations of foods/herbs.
1. ___________ 2. ____________ 3. ____________ 4. ____________
Macronutrients have a mild degree of action. List two macronutrients, their action and how you would apply it. Do the same for Medicinal foods, Medicines and Drugs/Poisons
(i.e. Food: cucumbers Action: cooling Application: place on swollen/irritated eyes)
Multiply Choice: choose the best herb for each situation listed
In the "Why Should We Use Herbs" section you learned that herbs:
1) Cleanse the body
2) Regulate our system
3) Raise the energy levels in the body
4) Stimulate our immune system
5) Offer nutrition
Use your herb book to make your choices and study each herb that you choose.
Many herbalists consider herbs "Wild Vegetables" - Foods that are packed with the nutrients that are missing from supermarket vegetables (organic not included). You will be given a list of several high nutrient-containing herbs and asked to give the vitamin and mineral content for each and an example of when you would add it to your building program.
Give a condition for Herbal Preparations and discuss why you feel that approach would be better than just taking the herbs internally.