5 Common Mistakes Beginning Herbalists Make
Note: Herbs DO work! Here are some reasons they may not be working for you, though. Here are some common mistakes people make when working with herbs for health, especially as beginners.
Has this happened to you?
You get sick, but you really don't want to go to the doctor and get yet another antibiotic?
Or maybe you know that using that over the counter decongestant is really ruining your nasal passages and creating a physical addiction? You’d really like to try something natural…You’ve heard of neti pots, but have no idea how to use one….
Or maybe you’re just tired of taking the chemical OTC meds because you “have a feeling” they’re terrible for you? (You’re right.)
So...you get online and do a little research.
Oh-Ho!
You discover that maybe using Holy Basil will help improve your stress levels. Or that Valerian will help you sleep? Or Saw Palmetto (for men) or Red Clover (women) will help fix all your hormone issues? Or Rosemary will solve all your memory problems?
You immediately charge off to the nearest supermarket and find a bottle (or stale box of tea bags) of whatever herb you read about online and decide to try it out.
But! It doesn't work.
In frustration, you toss those herbs into the trash.
So you just chalk up herbalism to being some kind of voodoo witchcraft or snake oil and simply give up, leaving you once again at the mercy of the modern medical industry.
If you have ever wondered why herbal remedies aren't working for you, there are some potential mistakes you might be making.
Herbs DO work. However, several factors can affect how effective they are on each individual's body. Let's take a look at these common mistakes many make or have made (including myself).
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Common Mistakes People Make When Using Herbs and Remedies: Have you tried herbs only to find they didn't really work for you? Have you given up on using herbs for healing thinking they don’t work? You might be making some very common mistakes that are easy to fix. Here are common mistakes not to make when using herbs for health. #herbalremedies #homeremedies #mistakes #doherbswork #herbsthatwork #herbalism #herbalist #healingharvesthomestead
Common Mistakes You’re Probably Making as a Beginning Herbalist
It's easy to make simple mistakes when you’re first learning about something new. Using herbs for your health is no exception. In fact, I would argue that learning how to use herbs may be more difficult than learning other new skills because everyone's body is different, not to mention there is SO much to know about using plants effectively!
With that said….using herbs for your wellness is not as hard as it seems. Especially when there’s group support involved too!
The bottom line is: Herbs are incredibly powerful, and they DO work when you know to avoid these common mistakes:
Mistake #1: Unrealistic Expectations: You Might be Expecting Herbs to Work Like Prescription or OTC (Over the Counter) Drugs
OK. Just doing a little internet research to find an herb that will solve a health ailment does not (always) work. I'm just being straight with you, here. Herbs are NOT like pills or medications.
Herbs work gently and may need time to work on and help your natural healing processes get to work---but they do work much better and are generally far more successful in the long term. This is because they help your body actually heal and are far more gentle in most cases than Rx or OTC drugs.
Most OTC and Rx drugs work on the symptom of the problem, not necessarily the actual reason you’re having the problem in the first place, if that makes sense.
For example, you might take a pill for your allergy symptoms. That allergy pill may make the symptoms of runny nose, congestion, sneezing, etc. go away temporarily…. but it won’t solve the problem, which is that your body is having an allergic reaction.
However, if you know how herbs work, then you probably know that by taking nettle leaf for two or three months prior to your seasonal allergies gives your body a chance to develop a histamine response that helps significantly.
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And using a combination of mullein and marshmallow leaf tea or tincture can almost immediately calm and sooth inflamed sinuses and itchiness while ALSO helping your body build a healthy immune response. Therefore, yes, herbs can and DO work on acute situations….but you need to understand their actions on the body.
Our modern society has been brainwashed for the past six or so decades by the ever-growing Big Pharmaceutical Industry and Big Government into a mistrust of our traditional ancestral folk medicine (home remedies).
It’s an unfortunate common belief these days that "the quick fix" a pill can provide is better than Grandma’s “old fashioned” remedy. So, we deal with expensive medications that often come with unpleasant or unsafe side effects that require even more medications.
The truth is in many cases, a pill often simply masks the underlying problem, and doesn't solve it at all.
Did you know that up until the early 20th century, people relied ONLY on herbal preparations and traditional remedies to heal themselves? And that pharmacists of that time (my great-grandfather was one at the turn of the century), actually created many of their own formulations to provide to their customers on an individualized basis?
Imagine that! A remedy usually made with plant-based materials that is specifically formulated for the individual?
Nowadays, thanks to Big Pharma and government "safety" controls, traditional folk herbalism is looked upon with suspicion, if not downright mistrust...often bordering on contempt and even fear.
This is because herbal medicine and prescription medicine (and OTC's) are completely different, and we have so very sadly lost the understanding and use of the traditional medicines our ancestors used. What our grandmothers and great-grandparents knew to work has been thrown carelessly by the wayside.
In this modern day and age, people under the age of about 80 have been trained to simply go to the doctor and "get a pill" that will solve the problem. No longer are underlying causes and lifestyle changes, including using herbs, being addressed by most doctors. It's just easier to go take that pill (and prescribe it), right?
By the very important way: I am NOT saying all medications are bad. Nope. Far from it. But I AM saying that a natural home remedy can act sometimes as quickly or even faster and with fewer side effects to support the body. Sometimes we DO need a prescription. But very often, a home remedy will do the trick even better.
Here's a Real Life Case Study:
Because of a change in our teachers' insurance, we were all made to choose a primary physician (I have never had one). So I went to see this fine doctor (and he truly is a wonderful man). He diagnosed me with high blood pressure and proceeded to scare me into taking high blood pressure medications.
But, sadly (or maybe thank goodness), they didn't work. So he adjusted the medications. Then I started to puff up by retaining water to the point I couldn't walk at the end of the day. So....now I was handed another prescription for diuretics.
Not only did I suffer the indignity of puffiness due to water retention, I GAINED actual weight! So now, I had to deal with that too! I just could NOT see how this was beneficial in any way.
And isn't this what often happens to people? They go to the doctor, are prescribed their pills, and take their daily pill or two (or ten). Oh, no! Now you have side effects from that/those pill(s) too? So, here: Take another pill to counteract those side effects!
My doctor actually wanted to have me start taking THREE different prescriptions! I finally said NO to all of it and went all natural, cold turkey after about six months of nonsense.
NO WAY was I going to become one of those people on multiple medications...when I truly believe I can heal my body using natural methods and lifestyle changes.
By the way, my doctor laughed (literally) when I mentioned lifestyle change. He told me people don’t have the will power.
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Well, I went and lost a few pounds, took my herbs, worked on my stress levels and implemented a breathing and exercise practice, and my blood pressure normalized to a better reading than I had on the drugs.
Now, I do realize that some people NEED the medications. But if you want to try using herbs, try to find a doctor who understands natural health and has some knowledge of plant medicine too.
When people understand how herbs work, give themselves and the herbs time to work, possibly make some life style changes, and have patience, it's pretty amazing how the human body can heal itself. Herbs are gentle, working to encourage the body to heal.
For herbs and oils to work for you, you truly have to understand the difference between herbal remedies and modern prescription pills.
***Note: Please be sure to research and discuss your health with medical professionals as well as obtaining your own knowledge. I am not a medical doctor, and I'm NOT advocating for you to do as I did. I am simply sharing my own personal story to show how herbs and medications work differently.
I believe we are all in charge of our own health and bodies and it is up to us individually to take responsibility and to determine the amount of control we are willing to give others over our health.
Please be sure to see a medical professional if you have questions. Hopefully, you can find one who knows a bit about using herbs for health instead of or in conjunction with medications.
How to Lower Your Cholesterol Naturally,
Herbs to Support Heart Health,
Chamomile is a very common herbal remedy for helping with sleep, relaxation, and mild anxiety.
Mistake #2: Using the Incorrect Preparation of the Herb
There are different ways to prepare herbs, depending on the person and the situation. Sometimes taking powdered herbs in a capsule form is the best way to solve a problem, and other times, drinking a tonic tea several times a day over a period of weeks is better.
Sometimes using a tincture and using only a few drops or droppers full is the best way, and sometimes it's best to use an external rub, poultice, or salve. Knowing what kind of preparation to use for what kind of problem, as well as matching the preparation to the person is necessary for herbs to work well.
If you are not sure, find a good herbalist and ask questions. But be careful. I love getting into these groups where someone has a problem like a strange bump, and the advice floods in from everyone in Timbuktu.
Perhaps you’re ready to start your own herbal journey and learn herbalism? Consider taking my intensive and extensive Family Herbalist course! It’s a great way to nail down what your specific and unique family needs and get these herbal preparations made.
Become a Confident Herbalist! Even if you’re beginning! Even if you’re intermediate or advanced…. Our signature community is the BEST resource on the market for your continuing education. It’s interactive. It’s filled with over 60 masterclasses, courses, and workshops (video with complete text), a searchable library, LIVE Q&A chats and plant talks, AND we include both herbs and essential oils. Click HERE to take a look!
Mistake #3: The Person's Individual Constitution is Not Taken Into Consideration
People have different constitutions and body make up. After all, we’re all different, right?
Basically, we can classify ourselves into hot, dry, moist, and cool constitutions in a quadrant. Therefore, knowing how your body behaves is important when considering what herb or combination of herbs to use for a malady.
Here's an example: I personally have a hot, dry constitution. If I have a runny nose and sinus problem, for my type of body, I will choose cooling and moisturizing herbs for chronic needs. For acute needs, I’ll use herbs I know will help quickly.
Using a vapor rub containing Peppermint and Eucalyptus (cooling) etc. as well as drinking a tea or taking a tincture containing Mullein and Marshmallow (moisturizing and soothing for inflammation) is best for my personal body.
For a person who has a cool, moist constitution, however, using a decongestant containing Ginger, Onion, and Cayenne infused Honey, taken internally, may work better to gently open up those sinuses, while drinking a more astringent type tea like sage or blackberry leaf might help dry up that runny nose better.
Everyone has a different kind of body and reacts differently to different herbs. Knowing your own body type (and your family's) is extremely important when choosing which herbs to use for what condition.
When using herbs, there are lots of options---and you'll want to choose the best herbs for each individual.
NOTE: I just want to say that when I first learned about people having different constitutions, I was quite confused and worried about making a mistake. Let me just add that there are many remedies that tend to work well across all types of bodies. Plus, herbs used for basic home remedies are generally quite safe.
One of my favorite herbs in the world is Mullein. It's a great healing expectorant and there are few better herbs for your respiratory system.
Mistake #4: Poor Quality Herbs....and Even Possible Adulteration of Commercial Herbs and Essential Oils
Just like anything else, the freshness and quality of the herb matters. And so does the source!
I'll never forget the time I needed some dried Plantain, as I had let mine run out. There's an herb shop in our large city, so I went in to pick up a couple of ounces since I couldn't wait a day for my online order to arrive. So when I received the Plaintain I had ordered from my online bulk herb supplier, I couldn't help but compare the two.
The herbs I had purchased from the store in town were brownish, dry, and obviously stale. The Plantain I received from my normal online supplier was bright green and fresh tasting. The difference was SO obvious, and I was truly disgusted at the quality I had received from the shop in town.
I haven't been there since, and now I make sure not to let my important herbs run out.
Mostly, if I can, I grow my own herbs, especially the ones I rely on the most. Foraging or growing your own is the best way to get fresh herbs. However, if you can't (and I certainly don't grow all of mine), my best place to purchase herbs is Starwest Botanicals for quality, options, and fast shipping.
Another issue that is related to poor quality is the potential adulteration or even mislabeling of herbs you buy commercially.
There have been unfortunate cases where herbs in stores have been tested, and it's been discovered that the St. John's Wort you think you are buying (as an example) turns out to be alfalfa or something else.
Therefore, it's VERY important to be able to trust the source of your herbs. Growing, drying, and preparing you own is always best, but if you can't, then purchase your herbs from a reputable source.
Click here and I’ll send along your FREE Herbal Remedy Guide and Cheat Sheet! It’s perfect for your kitchen or home apothecary!
Lovely, fragrant Rosemary is not only a useful culinary herb, but has amazing healing powers, being anti-microbial and antiseptic. Rosemary is also great for your brain health!
Mistake #5: You Might be Using the Incorrect Dosage
The amount of tincture I might need is going to be slightly different than the amount for my husband and definitely for my grand child. Knowing how much to take and how often to take it is of vital importance.
If you are new to herbs and are using "safe" herbs, then it's fine to play around with different amounts and preparations to see what works best for you! For children, please be VERY conservative. In general, about 1/4 the dose for an adult is generally fine for children 2-5. For children 5-12, use about 1/2 the dose as adults.
But this is where I strongly recommend getting some herbal education under your belt!
You might enjoy this article: How to Make and Use an Herbal Tincture. I've included basic dosing information there.
Be sure to bookmark this site for our hundreds of FREE articles, take a look (and subscribe to) our YouTube channel, and then Click HERE to check out the School of Botanical Arts & Sciences (SOBAS) by Healing Harvest Homestead. Enjoy herbalism taught from a Christian perspective.
Mistake #6: Poor Formulation
Blending herbs for specific needs is both a science and an art. Closely related to understanding an individual's constitution (see above) is knowing how herbs interact with one another and how to use herbs to make sure they work as well as they can.
Plants have specific actions and energetics too.
When blending a tea for an ailment, I choose one or two of the primary herbs--these are the herbs that will have the most effect on the malady. Then I'll use a secondary herb (or herbs) that enhance the effect of the primary herb(s).
Finally, I'll add a stimulating herb. These are not stimulating like caffeine, but they do stimulate the action of the other two categories of herbs. Herbs such as ginger, cayenne, cinnamon, rosemary, etc. are stimulating-type herbs.
You can find out more about basic formulation in this article or better yet, a more involved lessons in one of the modules in my course, Ditch the Drugstore.
If you'd like to learn the basics about how to blend your own medicinal teas (and it's fun to do), you may also like my course on The Art & Science of Herbal Teas, with around 135 of my best tea formulas and tons of great information!
I love growing my own St. John's Wort. It makes for a wonderful healing infused oil or tincture. And when using it in teas, it has been proven to help with Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Final Thoughts on How You Can Get Herbal Remedies to Work for You and Avoid Frustration with Herbal Medicine
Many people these days are wanting to "go natural," and solve their own health problems using holistic remedies. They are looking for natural health and wellness. Using plants as home remedies for common complaints is one way to be healthy!
Especially with typical illnesses like the common cold and allergies, herbal medicine is extremely safe and useful and can create healing systems in your body rather than dependence on chemical pharmaceuticals or over the counter (OTC) medications.
The bottom line is that you need to do your due diligence.
Learn as much as you can.
Experiment and try safe herbal remedies.
Seek advice from herbalists and people who actively use herbs.
If you have elders in your family who are aware of using plant medicine, talk to them! Don't let that knowledge die out!
I hope this article was helpful to you, and that you'll consider trying learn about and use herbs over time to help solve basic illnesses and improve your overall health.
If you are interested in some tea blends that could be very helpful for you, you might want to start with these articles:
How to Make Tea for the Sniffles,
How to Make an Herb Infused Oil
and my course on the Art of Herbal Tea for Pleasure and Health!
Do you have questions? Comments? An experience to share? Please share in the comments section!
Hugs, Health, and Herbs--
Heidi
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Disclaimer: I am NOT a medical professional. All statements are my own opinion and are only based on years of experience and study. Please seek medical attention from a medical professional if you have health issues--especially acute or serious ones. In no manner, stated or implied, are any statements made by me in my blog or website meant to cure, diagnose, prevent, or treat any illness. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.