Natural Healing Therapies -The Difference Between Herbal Remedies, Homeopathic Medicine and Flower Essences Explained

Are you considering the use of natural medicine for your health but don't know where to begin? You're not alone. Not only are there several types of alternative therapies, but there are sometimes hundreds of possibilities within each one.

Herbal remedies are often confused with homeopathic medicines. Unfortunately, they're often interchanged in web articles purporting to give readers advice. And flower essences aren't as well known as the other two. All three are meant to treat problems in a gentle, holistic way and cause little to no side effects.

Here is a brief intro to all three to help you decide where you want to begin your natural healing path.

For those of you used to pharmaceutical medication, herbal remedies will make the most sense. They are used to treat specific symptoms or to prevent illness by aiding in the function of certain body systems such as digestion.

Different parts of the plant are used and include the flowers, leaves and roots. The most common forms of herbal medicine used internally come in extracts, capsules and teas.

Many plants are the origin of drugs. One of these drugs is something you probably have in your medicine cabinet - aspirin. The bark of the willow tree contains an anti-inflammatory compound called salicin. This is the basis for salicylic acid which is the active component of aspirin. This component is made synthetically now but willow capsules are still available for people who want natural pain relief.

Homeopathic remedies are made from plant, mineral, or animal materials. Unlike herbal medicine, the substance itself isn't made into pill form but is diluted in liquid and shaken. This dilution process is done several times and results in minute doses of the remedy.

Homeopathy was developed by the German doctor and chemist Samuel Hahnemann. It follows the Law of Similars which is the idea that like cures like.

Drugs and herbs have the opposite effect of the symptom being treated, i.e. using a relaxant like chamomile to calm nerves. Homeopathic products are chosen based on if they would produce the same symptom in larger doses.

An example of like cures like is that of Nux vomica. This is a common homeopathic flu remedy and originates from the poisonous Strychnine Tree. Taken by itself, it could be deadly. But as a diluted homeopathic remedy it's used to treat the common cold, flu, hangovers and digestive problems.

Early in United States history, homeopathic medicine was much more widely accepted until around the early 1900s. Homeopathy has a better reputation in other parts of the world including the UK, Germany, France and Mexico, but the US is catching back up.

Flower essences are part of vibrational medicine. They work on several levels including physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. The plant matter isn't actually in the remedy. However, it's used in the preparation process to extract the energy or essence of the flower.

Bach flower remedies are the most well known and were created by Dr. Edward Bach who was an English physician responsible for introducing the technique for making modern flower essences to the world. Bach Rescue Remedy is by far the most popular used for people and animals to reduce stress, anxiety and trauma.

You can easily make your own flower remedy. Herbs, crystals and gems are also used to make essences. To learn more, visit How to Make Your Own Flower Essence and How to Make a Gem Elixir.

One thing all three types of alternative treatments have in common is that because they're made from natural materials, they're often mistakenly thought of as harmless.

Keep in mind that the basic definition of drug is a substance used to treat or prevent disease. Therefore, natural medicines are technically drugs.

You may be less likely to have an adverse reaction to herbs, homeopathy or flower essences, but it isn't impossible. Allergic reactions are another possibility. Stick to a trusted brand, either one that you've tried or that has been recommended by someone you trust.

If you're considering using these remedies for a chronic or serious problem, then it's advisable to see a qualified professional.

Disclaimer: This is meant as a very brief introduction to these three natural healing remedies. No information presented here is meant to replace medical advice.

Sources consulted:

• Cochrane, Amanda and Clare G. Harvey. The Encyclopaedia of Flower Remedies: The Healing Power of Flowers from Around the World. Thorsons, 1995.
• Nux Vomica. Botanical.com - A Modern Herbal by Mrs. M. Grieve, 1995-2010.
• What is Homeopathy? National Center for Homeopathy. Accessed March 2010.