The power of a healthy herbal habit can make a big difference in our daily lives.
People who use herbs daily are going to be more conscious of good health.
Starting the day with a green smoothie that has herbs such as spirulina, chlorella, wheatgrass, and milk thistle are going to make a person feel more energized.
Herbs that are adaptogens, such as ashwagandha, ginseng and maca – can be taken on a daily basis with a day off once a week.
If you are taking a green supplement or drinking one every morning check to see if an herbal adaptogen is included.
Herbal adaptogens help the body adapt to stress as well as balancing hormones, providing energy, stamina, motivation, clear thinking and better sleep.
Taking these herbs first thing in the morning is a good way to start the day and ensure the body is getting the nutrients requires.
But sometimes people have difficulty starting or sticking to a healthy herbal habit.
So how do you establish a healthy herbal habit?
First – commit to using the herbal product for a specified time. For instance, if you are using maca for hormone balance, use it every day for four to six weeks, then take a short break. It often takes that long to notice a difference. Keep a record of how you feel and any changes you notice in your body.
Second – use the correct dosage and a safe dose. More is not better, especially with some herbs. If you’re not sure how it will affect you, start with a small dose and then work up to a larger dose but always follow product recommendations.
If it is not a commercial product and you are using bulk herbs or plants you have harvested, start with smaller amounts. Ask store staff or an herbalist for recommendations or suggestions.
Third – Use herb simples or single herbs first before using formulas. It’s hard to know which herb is having an effect on your body if you are taking dozens at a time. However, if you are taking a commercially prepared greens product or one prepared by professionals, then it is worth using a formula that has several herbs in it.
Fourth – have patience. Some herbs work quickly while others are a quiet support for your health. Herbs like maca will take some time to work on balancing hormones but they do work. Give these types of herbs at least a month and after 2-3 months you should notice a difference. Don’t expect an instant fix with herbs.
Fifth – cut the junk. Don’t expect herbs to work if you keep putting junk into your body. This includes junk foods, heavy and fatty foods, excessive caffeine or alcohol. Help the herbs do their job by doing yours to eat healthy.
Sixth – do your research. Maybe this should have been first. But I want to leave you with this too as it is always important to know the source of an herb or herbal product and to know what effect it will have on your body. It’s your body – you have a right to know. Question hype, cross reference your research and look for contraindications or side effects. A good herbal website or reference will list any known side effects.
