The Herb Stop Blog
7 Reasons Why Herbs Don't Work For Some People
Have you ever wondered why herbs don't work for some people? I have asked myself this question many, many times. Through observation and interacting with people seeking healing through herbs through-out my lifetime as an Herbalist, I have found some commonalities. Here are my 7 reasons why herbs do not work for some people:
Inappropriate Choice Of Herb
You may have chosen an herb according to its constituents, actions and historical uses. For example, Echinacea has been very effective at combating a flu or cold. But for some reason, it may not work for you, or you may even have some side effects. Finding the right healing herb to match the person's condition is not only a science, but an art as well.
Dosage
When an herb does not work for you, you may need to increase the dosage. One person may be okay with taking 1 capsule of Kelp for thyroid health, but another person may need to take much more. (Caution: always research the herb for possible toxicity, or ask you Herbalist).
Absorption
If you are not getting positive results from your herbs, you may have difficulties digesting and absorbing them. I like to take some herbs on an empty stomach for quick results. Although this may not always be appropriate. For example, Cayenne on an empty stomach may irritate your stomach lining. Some people who like spicy foods are usually fine taking Cayenne anytime. For better absorption you can try taking Ginger with your herb/herbs, as Ginger increases absorption by almost 50%.
Forms Of Herbal Medicines
Certain forms of herbal medicines may be more effective for you than others. You may be getting great results from taking herbal capsules, but others may not be able to absorb them. Depending on the herbs you are taking, you may have better results with taking herbal extracts/tinctures or homeopathic remedies. For example, I take 2 capsules of Eleuthero when I feel tired. They work within 20 minutes. But, Eleuthero does not work for me in an extract/tincture form.
Timing
Timing is everything! Most herbs work best on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning or last thing at night. For example, I like to take my memory herbs first thing when I get up with my morning tea, and before bed I enjoy a cup of herbal relaxing tea. Herbs for the digestive system should be taken before meals. Mixing all your herbs at one time may be confusing for your body and you may not get the result you are looking for. Some people tell me they take all their herbs in the morning in one big gulp, but find they are not getting optimum results. I like to compare it to mixing colors. When you mix blue with yellow you get a green color.
The Season
The four seasons have a direct effect on our bodies. You may find that your herbs may work better during a particular season. For example, herbs for the liver and gallbladder are more effective during Spring time. Colon cleansing herbs should be taken in the fall, etc. If you decide to deep cleanse your body during the cold winter months, you may find it difficult and not receive the best results. If you get sick, wait until Spring.
Psychological and spiritual causes
Interestingly, I have noticed that people who have a strong connection to nature, heal quicker with herbal medicines. They are able to receive healing and inspiration from the Natural World, and this includes herbal medicines. Hospital rooms use to have big windows looking out into a garden to benefit the patient's healing processes.
Tschau mitenand,
Leilah