Herbs have been used to promote health and wellness and to prevent and treat ailments for several thousand years. It is believed that herbal remedies were already used by the Neanderthals 60 000 years ago.

As much as 80% of the world's population use herbs in one way or another. In fact, herbal remedies are the main form of medicine for three-fourths of the entire world. There are more than 80,000 various plants used in the world today.

In India, herbs are used as part of Ayurvedic medicine for more than 5,000 years. In China, traditional Chinese medicine has been used as a primary form of medicine for over 2,500 years.

For most of the 20th century, American physicians have primarily prescribed synthetic chemicals and drugs. The pharmaceutical industry grosses more than $100 billion annually n the U.S. alone.

New scientific evidence supports the benefits of herbal medicines, and more consumers are opting for natural and nontoxic treatments. A USDA study looked at almost 40 common herbs and spices and how common foods on your spice rack can improve your health. Oregano has the highest antioxidant activity. Dill, thyme, sage, rosemary, ginger and even peppermint have high antioxidant levels too.

Curcumin is a spice derived from turmeric, which is the main ingredient in curry. Dr. Sally Frautschy, Ph.D., is a researcher from UCLA who has done extensive testing on curcumin. She says that "we accidentally found out that it blocks every single step in Alzheimer's pathogenesis and it kills nearly every cancer cell in the lab."

Researchers confirms that many of these antioxidants in herbs and spices are only absorbed by the body when they're eaten with fat, so use herbs in recipes with good fats like olive oil, flax seed oil and raw coconut oil.

Herbal medicines provide a concentrated dose of natural antioxidants and other important health-promoting compounds. While herbal medicines should never substitute for a wholesome diet, they can provide many biologically active health-contributing compounds.

Usually, the green leafy part of a herb is used for culinary purposes while the shrub or other woody plant is used for its medicinal properties. Herbs may be used fresh, dried, powdered or crushed. They may be used in extracts, teas, tinctures or as poultices or compresses.

Synthetic drugs have many side effects. The American Medical Association Journal statistics show that more than 100,000 people die every year in American hospitals from side effects of appropriately prescribed medicine. Pharmaceutical drugs can be toxic to our entire body. Only few doctors inform their patients about these possible side effects.

More are turning to herbal medicines for a natural and gentle approach to treating health problems. Herbal remedies treat the whole body. They treat the cause of a disease, while pharmaceutical drugs tread the effect of the disease (the symptoms).

Just like synthetic drugs, some herbal remedies may have side effects, and used in combination with other natural and prescription medications, may produce additional side effects. The lack of control over dosage and purity can be another problem regarding the use of herbal medicine.

Nevertheless, there are countless herbs that are safe and that have effectively promoted health and wellness. They provide a natural alternative to the treatment and prevention of disease.

If you plan to use herbal remedies, it is best to first consult with a professional health practitioner. Also keep a journal of the herbs you are taking, the date, the amounts and the effects it is having, and share it with your medical practitioner.