History
“The natural healing force within each of us is the greatest force in getting well.” – Hippocrates
The use of medicinal plants dates back to approximately 60,000 years ago, with written evidence of herbal remedies going as far back as 5,000 years, when ancient peoples compiled lists of plants together with their uses.
We explore the history of herbal medicine, individual plants and their traditional uses.
Herbal medicines from Ghana
Herbalist Naa Adjeley Kwei (Tsofanye) provides an introduction to the philosophy, culture and plant...
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The relevance of traditional ecological knowledge for modern herbal medicine
Indigenous people hold valuable wisdom when it comes to managing their natural environment. We...
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Give herbs a chance
There is a rise in complex chronic conditions. We explore how and why herbal...
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Exploring the ancient history of Western Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years and has a fascinating and...
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Our favourite healing gardens in the UK
Medicinal plant gardens are a delightful way to get to know natures medicine for...
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The language of Energetics: An excerpt from Kat Maier’s book
This excerpt is from Kat Maier’s new book Energetic Herbalism: A Guide to Sacred...
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Chaga (Inonotus obliquus): A mushroom with many medicinal properties
Medicinal fungi like chaga have boomed in popularity in recent years. Matthew Clark shares...
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Primitive sense and the intuitive mind: Sensory herbal medicine
Ruth Weaver discusses how we connect with herbs by sensing and feeling and why...
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The history of adaptogens
Jason Irving explores adaptogens which have been hailed as a panacea for many of...
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The evidence house of Herbal Medicine: A holistic approach to contemporary research
Herbalist Danny O'Rawe discusses a holistic approach to contemporary research.
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The history of ephedra: A powerful lung medicine from China
Ethnobotanist Jason Irving explores ephedra's use as a treatment for asthma.
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The effects of modern life on our gut health and what to do about it
With the advent of ultra-processed foods and the over-use of pharmaceuticals, what do we...
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Bitters: Why herbalists love them and how they help digestion
In botanical medicine, we value the gentle but consistent effects bitters have in promoting...
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A brief history of herbal quality assessment: From ancient Rome to 21st century mitochondria
Quality control has been an issue for as long as humans have used herbs...
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Kava: Mythical origins and epic coevolution
Origin Myths from various cultures and religions are fascinating examples of oral tradition. Bill...
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Cannabis: A folk remedy in Europe
The cannabis plant is extraordinarily versatile: it can be used for textiles, oil, food,...
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Can we integrate traditional knowledge and modern science?
Roy Upton explores if, and how, we can integrate the knowledge from traditional herbal...
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Pharmacopoeias in codifying quality of herbal medicines
Roy Upton explores the history of pharmacopoeias and their important role in herbal medicine.
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Traditional herbal medicines: Centuries of Empiricism
Roy Upton explores how the true level of medicine is only revealed through empirical...
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Historical perspectives on traditional herbal medicine
The dynamic relationship between humans, plants, and the environment overall has been captured in...
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