Many natural treatments have now become extremely popular today. Homeopaths and Naturopaths have added to our traditional western medicine and are gaining popularity in all ages groups. Many people prefer not to take prescription or commercial medications for mild medical conditions in order to avoid negative side effects that often exist.

These natural remedies are also used for additional relief in combination with prescription or over the counter medication. Both home remedies and herbal treatments are considered to be natural. Despite the common misconception, the two terms do not overlap completely. There are some major differences.

Herbalism

Also known as herbal medicine, herbalism is in fact, a form of science. Various herbs or medicinal plants are used on their own or in different combinations to relieve and cure specific illnesses. These medicines were discovered centuries ago and as people started to have better understanding of herbal plants, and their healing properties, the medications became more complex.

The home remedies are also part of folklore medicine. However, they do not necessarily include herbs. In fact, a large number of home remedies we use are not herbal. For instance baking soda is used for the relief of various skin conditions as well as an antibacterial drug. Salt is a mineral that is also popular with people who rely on home treatment. The consumption of different vegetables, fruits and foods is also considered beneficial. These are considered home remedies, but they are not herbal treatments.

Another important difference between the two is that home remedies are actually prepared at home. Various ingredients typically found in the kitchen are used in their preparation and may or may not include herbs. The recipes are well known and easy to prepare at home without the use of special tools or unconventional methods.

The herbal treatments, on the other hand, may require the use of ingredients that are not present in every home. Some herbs are picked only in specific areas while others appear only during a short time of the year. In addition, the preparation process is much stricter and often more complex. Some herbal ingredients may require long fermentation.

In addition, herbal medicine is much like modern day medicine. It aims to recognize the individual symptoms and treat them with the use of a combination of herbs. In traditional Chinese medicine, for instance, the herbalist combines different plants to create a unique medication. It is made to treat the specific symptoms of the sufferer.

The main differences between home remedies and herbal remedies were formed historically. In most communities, there were people who actually practiced herbalism and traditional medicine. In some cultures these were recognized as healers while in others they were shamans. Even nuns and monks practiced herbalism in Europe. Often an herbal potion was accompanied by the use of spells and enchantments that were thought to help in the treatment and only special people could be healers.

Home Remedies

Home remedies, on the other hand, were accessible to all. The recipes were passed from one person to another and down through the generations. Most of them were actually known as cooking recipes and in fact, the first written records of home remedies are found in cookbooks.

Today the gap between herbal treatments and home remedies is continually growing. Modern day medications work quickly and are effective for the most part. However, many modern drugs have side effects, and scientists are paying greater attention to the plants and beneficial extracts from the past.

Overall, home remedies and herbal treatments differ to a great extent. Still, you can use both types whenever the need arises alone or alongside modern medicine depending on the illnesses you are being treated for. Choose a reputable store with qualified staff to gather your information. Purchase top quality ingredients and always consult professionals to work hand in hand when dealing with your own health and the health of your family.