The different grades of herbs is not often discussed. But, to use herbs wisely, it is important to understand this concept!
Why are Herbs Graded?
Without realizing it, we grade everything we put in our mouths. We all understand the idea that greasy French fries are junk food and a baked potato with herbal seasoning is a healthier
alternative.
So it is with herbs. No, none of them are junk food, because all have valuable properties! But, some are good for both food and healing, while others are more strictly used for healing alone.
The grades of herbs help to categorized herbs, so you can easily understand how they are to be used.
The 3 Grades of Herbs
Food Grade Herbs These herbs are generally recognized as food. In other words, you can go pick a basketful and cook them up for supper! Some well-known examples are broccoli, spinach, cayenne pepper and oregano.
Some others that are less known, but every bit as good can be found in the wild (remember this can be your backyard or the cracks in your sidewalk!). Lamb's quarters, chickweed, dandelion and stinging nettles are a few of my favorites.
Even though these herbs are considered foods, they also have many beneficial properties that promote health.
In Chinese Medicine, and in other branches of herbal medicine (and in my humble opinion too!), these herbs are the most respected. This is because they
Provide nourishment to a specific body system enabling that system to do what it was designed to do!
Achieve more lasting results, and do it with the gentlest action.
Can be used long-term with no worries about side effects!
Please Note:
When I say "no side-effects" I do not refer to the allergies some people have to certain plants or food substances.
For example, someone with Celiac Disease must avoid the plant protein gluten, which is most abundant in wheat. Others are allergic to nuts or dairy products, etc. so must avoid them.
A true side-effect is an undesired effect caused by taking something (usually a drug) for a desired result.
Medicinal Herbs These herbs are used for a specific purpose and only for a limited time.
A good example is Echinacea. Historically this herb is known for its ability to boost the immune system. However, its effectiveness is greatly reduced if taken long-term as a preventative.
Traditionally it is best used as soon as cold or flu symptoms begin for up to, but usually no longer than, 2 weeks.
Toxic Herbs Do not use these herbs unless under the direction of a health professional!
They are used in acute situations, working like a drug by forcing an action on/in the body. They definitely have their place in herbal medicine, but are best avoided by the average individual.
Use of these herbs is often unnecessary. Since food grade herbs are very beneficial, as you become more and more confident in the use of them, you will hopefully shield yourself from ever needing anything stronger!
How Knowing Grades of Herbs Helps You
It takes the fear out of using herbs!
when you know how an herb is to be used, you will no longer be afraid of it. Know the herb's grade, remember to always be absolutely certain in its identification, learn all you can about it, then enjoy the benefits of it!
It enables you to use herbs intelligently.
Even though learning the grades of herbs is just the beginning, it certainly is a good place to start! Too many times people adopt the attitude:
"If a little is good, a whole lot is better!"
This is safe only if using food grade herbs. But even with food grade herbs, you need to exercise moderation at first. Allow your body to adjust to the new food before eating it by the truck-load!
It enables you to use herbs safely.
If an herb is food grade, you know you are "safe." (That is if you have no allergy to that food type. See side note above.) So, for example, you can drink as much Peppermint tea as you like, without any safety issues, and enjoy many of its extraordinary qualities!
