I have been doing a lot of research lately on the herbs that can be used for alternative medicine. I was especially interested in herbs that could be used in an herbal vaporizer. The information that is available is overwhelming. I had no idea that so much data existed.

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries. Medicine men and healers used herbs, chants and other rites to heal and aid patients. These same remedies were passed on from generation to generation until no one probably can tell where or when they began. The practice of medicine no doubt owes it’s beginning to these same pioneers. There are medicines available today that owe their beginnings to herbal remedies. Although created in labs and test tubes, they are recreating the effects found in herbal remedies ( i.e., relaxation, stress relief, depression relief, cough relief, etc) An herbal remedy, however, may have less side effects.

In the past, herbs were burned and the smoke was considered beneficial. Native Americans used smoke lodges to purify their minds and bodies. Different herbs were used in other cultures as well. A lot of herbal remedies today use steam inhalation. I suspect that herbs that are used for steam inhalation can also be used in an herbal vaporizer. In steam inhalation, the herb is placed in water and the steam vapor is inhaled. In an herbal vaporizer, the herb is heated and no water is used. The vapor is not moist, or at least not as moist, as in steam vapor. The results, however, should be about the same.

As I was reading through the information several herbs showed up in many of the blends. For instance, lavender and eucalyptus are often used, as is chamomile, rosemary, and mint. For a headache, one might consider using six parts lavender with four parts peppermint and two parts marjoram. For someone with a cough, three parts lavender, two parts eucalyptus and two parts thyme might be useful. I’ve seen a blend of six parts lavender, two parts spearmint and 2 parts hyssop recommended for someone with asthma. An aid to relaxation might include a blend of 3 parts chamomile, one part lavender, one part valerian and one part wild lettuce.

Some possible uses of herbs might include:

1. Chamomile could be used to aid with insomnia or an upset stomach.

2. Sage might be used for its pleasant aroma which is relaxing and calming and might even relieve a cough or lung congestion.

3. St. John’s Wort might be used as an antidepressant and generally has fewer side effects than many prescribed and over the counter medications.

Herbs can be blended in many combinations and using an herbal vaporizer is an excellent delivery method. As with all medications, a person should certainly be conscious of possible side effects and do research. I think it is also wise to begin slowly and use the smallest amount possible until reactions and benefits can be observed.

In conclusion, I recommend trying herbal blends used in an herbal vaporizer in the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle. We all want to feel great and if there is a way to accomplish this with less chemicals in our body, so much the better.