One of the great things about herbs is that you can use them in many different ways. This is especially important in the world of natural health care because everyone has unique needs, sensitivities, and preferences. Herbal medicines can take the form of combination formulas that contain multiple supporting herbs that work together to achieve a health goal. Herbs can also be used on their own in the form of a single tincture. Both versions are suitable and effective, but one may be more suitable than the other depending on the individual.
Mixtures
WishGarden has not only been developing herbal blends since 1979, we are often considered the pioneer of this type of herbal medicine. Each herb in our herbal blends has a specific role and the herbs work synergistically to provide highly effective results. Here are a few reasons to choose multi-spice blends:
- Trying to alleviate multiple discomforts at the same time: This method can be very helpful in dealing with a problem that seems to present itself in more than one way. For example, our Serious V-Fighter contains a team of herbs that target the immune and respiratory systems, while also supporting healthy microbial balance, soothing an aching body and helping maintain a healthy body temperature.
- Targeting several body systems at once: Like the above, combos are great when you’re trying to support the health of multiple body systems at once. For example, our Deep Cleanse Reset & Flourish supports the health of the kidneys, liver and lymphatic system, creating an optimal trio for daily detoxification.
- Taste: Most people with experience using spices know that some of them taste downright terrible. Combos can help us take these pungent herbs more easily. Valerian typically has a strong aroma and flavor, but adding chamomile and lime flower can soften those flavors and further support relaxation and sleep. It’s a win, a win.
- Synergy: Plants tend to play well with other plants. By combining the different components of each plant, we can create a beautiful synergy with effective results.
Singles
Single herbal tinctures are also very effective herbal remedies. While we traditionally offer blends of multiple herbs, we also create single-herb tinctures that we consider particularly “super-potent.” Here are a few reasons to choose single herb tinctures:
- To test the body’s sensitivity to a herb: For those with more sensitive bodies, it is sometimes more appropriate to try a single herb to really feel how its effects resonate in the body. It is difficult to pinpoint a sensitivity within a multi-herb mixture, because all herbs have different effects.
- Organoleptic agents: This is a huge part of becoming an herbalist or learning about herbs and plants. It is an important exercise when it comes to getting to know an herb on a deeply personal level. Organoleptics is the practice of using all your senses to experience what an herb looks, tastes, smells and feels like in your body. This would be difficult in a blend and is best done with a single herb.
- Only one body system is attempted to be targeted:. For example, if your immune system is healthy and your immune response does not need to be activated, but you still want to support your respiratory system, you can take herbs that have an affinity only for that part of the body, such as mullein. It supports our lungs without boosting our immune system.
- Simplicity: Sometimes it really is that simple and we only need one herb. I like to use Scullcap to calm my nervous system during the day because it is effective but not overly sedating. If I were to use a mixture of sedative herbs, it could be overly sedating and make me crave a nap. But on its own it’s perfect for that moment.
Rebecca Younger is passionate about herbs and women’s health. She strives to plant seeds of inspiration within her community about plant medicine and healthier ways of living. She studied herbal medicine at Herbalism Roots in Denver and is a certified Doula through the Matrona Foundation. She is the customer journey leader at WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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