Prelude
They have been used for centuries by cultures spanning the globe. Knowledge of their use has been passed on through generations. And after a long drought of use in the Western world, their popularity is exponentially increasing as we enter the 21st century. "They" are herbs.
In Germany, 80% of mainstream doctors prescribe them. In the United States, special legislation has been created to regulate them. And in Canada, political, economic, and corporate bodies are currently orienting themselves to the growing public interest and subsequent use.
Herbs are not "drugs" as we typically define them. Herbs are derived from living organisms (though components are often isolated in a lab). They are generally safer than prescription drugs and are significantly cheaper. Most importantly, herbs cannot be patented and monopolized by corporate entities. As a result, they are widely available and can be grown almost anywhere by almost anyone. Plant some herbs in your garden and acquaint yourself with your new living medicine cabinet.
If herbal use is relatively new for you, it is important to become educated on their benefits, methods of use, and beneficial/harmful combinations. You are strongly encouraged to discuss herbal remedies with your herbalist, naturopath, or other health practitioner if you are unfamiliar with their use.
