Herbs are plants, they are considered a food, and they contain vitamins and minerals that can be used by the body to build and repair weakened areas. When a person or animal becomes low in vitamins or minerals their body is unable to function properly. Without enough Vitamin A for instance, vision problems develop, the eyes become sensitive to light and it becomes hard to see in the dark. To maintain good health you need a constant supply of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients for your body to use.

Basic properties all herbs have:

1. Herbs supply nutrients - easy to absorb/ naturally balanced/ free of chemicals.
2. They have an affinity to an organ or system. Meaning that the herbs energy and nutrients have an attraction for a particular part of the body and will most help that area of the body. Example: the herb hawthorn has a special attraction to the heart and contains the correct nutrients to nourish the heart tissue.
3. They have a balancing energy, they work to balance the body’s electromagnetic field, much like acupuncture.
4. Medicinal Property many herbs have medical properties such as anti-inflammatory, or pain relieving properties.

When we understand what nutrients are contained in a particular herb, what that herb does in the body, and what action the herbs have on the body we can get really good results using them to help build, repair, and energize the body.

Herbs are not drugs - they are not used to treat or cover up a symptom, but rather, we use herbs to restore balance to the body, so that the body can in turn heal itself.

The Three Basic Actions of Herbs:

1. Post digestive effect - The effect the herb has on the body after it has been digested. This action is largely nutritional. (Ex. Alfalfa, Bee Pollen)
   
2. Pre-Digestive effect - The effect the herb has on the body due to its taste or smell. These herbs tend to stimulate or relax the body‘s energy. The relaxing smell of lavender or the how onions make your eyes water are good examples
   
3. Homeopathic Effect - Vibrational energy, has to do with the action of the herb on the body’s electromagnetic field. They can release energy where blockages have occurred.

The 5 Classifications of Herbs:

1. Astringents - Tone and Tighten (Red Raspberry, Pau d’Arco)
2. Demulcents - Soothe, moisten, protect (Slippery elm, Aloe vera, Marshmallow, Pysllium)
3. Bitters - Dissolve, loosen, cleanse (Cascara, Yucca, Dandelion)
4. Aromatics - Stimulate, promote, relax (Peppermint, Lavender, Garlic)These herbs are associated with your sense of smell.
5. Nutritive - Used mainly for nutritional value ( Alfalfa, Bee pollen)