Why People Use/Enjoy Herbal Medicine: The Desired Outcomes from Using Herbal Medicine
As we stand in the year 2022, history serves as a testament to the significant impact that herbal medicine has had on human health for centuries. The allure of herbal medicine lies in its complexity and the holistic approach it takes to achieve better health and happiness. This article explores why people use and enjoy herbal medicine, the outcomes they desire from it, and the reasons behind the modern resurgence of traditional healing.
A Historical Perspective
Our journey into the past reveals that herbs were the primary source of medication well into the 20th century. According to Alan Wayne Jones' Journal Publication on 'Early Drug Discovery and the Rise of Pharmaceutical Chemistry,' the first synthetic drug, chloral hydrate, was discovered in 1869 and introduced as a sedative-hypnotic. This discovery marked the beginning of modern pharmaceutical chemistry, which further evolved through the 20th century.
The early pharmaceutical companies were born from the textiles and synthetic dye industry, drawing from the rich source of organic chemicals derived from coal-tar distillation. The first analgesics and antipyretics, such as phenacetin and acetanilide, were simple chemical derivatives of aniline and p-nitrophenol, both byproducts of coal-tar. These chemical modifications led to the creation of effective medications like aspirin, which, while bitter and irritating, ultimately extended human lifespans.
The Rise of Modern Medicine
As modern medicine gained momentum, it promised a cure-all for various ailments, which it delivered. The discovery of antibiotics and vaccines drastically reduced mortality rates. By the 1900s, global life expectancy had more than doubled, reaching an average of over 70 years. This marked an era where the world saw people living longer and healthier lives than ever before.
However, with this newfound longevity came a new desire for more. People wanted health and happiness, which traditional and modern medicine often failed to provide in equal measure. The convenience and apparent effectiveness of modern medicines led many societies to abandon or neglect their herbal heritage.
Rediscovering Traditional Healing
Despite the advancements in modern medicine, there is a growing trend of 'rediscovering' herbal medicine. This renewed interest stems from the understanding that herbs offer a wholistic approach to healing. Unlike synthetic drugs, which are often reduced and refined, herbal medicine uses the 'whole' plant, including its roots, leaves, and other components, making the recovery process more natural and holistic.
Herbal medicine has three main advantages over modern pharmaceuticals:
Health and Wellness: Users of herbal medicine often report feeling more than just a temporary relief from symptoms. Herbs can help achieve a sense of health and happiness, which is elusive with many modern medications. This feeling of overall wellness is a key outcome for many users.
Wholistic Approach: Herbs work on the body as a whole, addressing multiple aspects of health, not just one symptom. This wholistic approach can lead to more sustainable and comprehensive health improvement.
Cultural and Personal Connection: For many, herbal medicine carries a personal and cultural significance that is hard to replicate with modern pharmaceuticals. It taps into a deeper connection to nature and traditional practices, which resonates with many individuals.
Conclusion
Herbal medicine continues to be a crown jewel in the world of healing. Its resurgence is not just a nod to the past but a recognition of the importance of natural and holistic approaches to health. As modern medicine extends human lifespans, herbal medicine offers a pathway to achieving a more profound sense of health and happiness. Whether for the relief of symptoms, a wholistic approach to wellness, or a connection to cultural heritage, herbal medicine remains a significant and valuable component of traditional healing practices.