Herbal Medicine, Real or Placebo?

In my practice, I am frequently asked, "Does herbal medicine truly work or is it mostly placebo?" The answer is quite simple, herbal medicine IS an effective health alternative. With the myriad of medicinal botanicals available to the general public, it is important to understand that each medicinal property has a unique body response, a personal signature. Medicinal herbs, while they are natural, they are "food", they are also substances that require understanding and care.

A few examples:

After enjoying your favorite cup of coffee, you may have noticed effects to your alertness, an increased need for the restroom, and if you've consumed a large amount of caffeinated coffee, you've likely noticed a jittery feeling. If you've consumed regular amounts of caffeinated coffee, you may also develop a physiological addiction that can result in withdraw symptoms if this addiction is not regularly fed. These are direct responses to the properties of the coffee bean. Coffee's effect on the body is unique to coffee alone and has an affinity for the central nervous system. Although there are other caffeinated drinks such as Yerba Matte, Guarana and Green Tea, coffee has its own unique signature.

Cayenne Pepper, a common spice additive for many foods, contains Capsicum. This every day spice can bring about very noticeable body responses - a feeling of heat, flushed cheeks and sinus responses resulting in a runny nose when consumed in moderate quantities or by someone with a sensitive pallet. Cayenne Pepper, or Capsicum, also has a unique make-up that has a distinctive effect on the cardiovascular and circulation systems. It is also a wonderful heating herb for cold/damp body conditions.

As society seems to be experiencing many health crises connected to alarming obesity rates, growing sedentary habits, processed foods and genetically modified crops, it becomes ever more important to look into incorporating safe and easy to use herbs into our everyday diets in an effort to give functional support to our bodies. Examples of herbs that could be easily added to ones daily regimen are garlic for immune health, cloves for digestive support, ginger for digestive and circulatory support, blueberries for antioxidant support, and decaffeinated green tea as an overall health tonic.

Yours in Good Health,
Eric Rodriguez, M.H CCI
The Culpeper House