Posts about herbalism are simply my own ponderings and should be taken as such. I am not a medical professional.

2025-9-26

When I first started on my herbal journey, I had this idea that there was a choice between holistic medicine and modern industrialized medicine. Any pharmaceutical use would mean a person was not truly embracing a holistic philosophy of healing. I didn’t think I could ever completely terminate my use of pharmaceuticals, so I felt like herbalism would always remain just a quaint hobby in my life. I was the kind of herbalist that simply wanted to relax with a cup of chamomile tea at night.

That was years ago. I am no longer a puritan. A person can strive for a holistic attitude towards healing while still relying on pharmaceuticals when needed.

So why turn to herbs at all? Why aren’t modern day pharmaceuticals good enough? Indeed, I think many people embrace this way of thinking.

I can’t speak for everyone. However I do think there are certain common reasons why people turn to herbs.

Many herbalists I have met seem to have experienced problems that were not addressed satisfactorily by “modern medicine”. The gold standard remedy for their problem or the problem of a loved one was not acceptable to them. Some were told they would need to take drugs with serious unwanted side-effects. Some wanted to avoid unnecessary surgery. Some really just found it difficult to deal with a medical system that objectified their bodies. Some had developed addictions to drugs prescribed to them by specialists and couldn’t bring themselves to trust again. Many had been ridiculed when they asked basic questions and were wary to move forward with the recommended treatment while their concerns were unanswered. Some knew they would always need to rely on pharmaceutical drugs but wanted to reduce their use.

Another reason people venture into this field is this: Herbalism is empowering in a way that the modern medical industry can never be. Often you can grow or obtain the plant you are looking for all by yourself. You don’t have to beg permission from a doctor after waiting six months for an appointment. You don’t need to spend dozens of hours dealing with portals that are designed to keep you out. Taking ownership of your health through herbs can give you a sense of control which itself can give your health a boost. Every day you feel like you can take positive action to help yourself. Furthermore, you can help others do the same.

I am writing my own materia medica. See here.