Botanical medicine has been used for thousands of years in many cultures. It still plays a crucial role in the preservation, maintenance, and restoration of health. The use of modern pharmaceutical medicine is still minor for most of the world's population. Botanical medicine compliments a functional approach to health care. It is very much about restoring and maintaining balance.
Botanicals are particularly helpful in managing conditions associated with inflammation and pain. They have anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, analgesic, and anti-dysbiotic properties which are particularly useful in complex imbalances. Anti-inflammatory/analgesic botanicals such as boswellia, devil's claw, willow bark, cat's claw and ginger, when used in the right combinations, are as effective as drugs such as Rimadyl for treating musculoskeletal conditions. Mediterranean oregano, berberine, artemesia, and cranberry possess anti-microbial properties. Anti-dysbiotics include myrrh, peppermint, bearberry, thyme, clove, anise, buchu/betulina, caprylic acid, dill, Brucea javanica, and acacia catechu. In addition to being effective, these botanicals are inexpensive and relatively free of side effects.
John B. Smith, DVM ♦ "The Dog Doctor" ♦ 734-213-7447 ♦1954 S. Industrial Ann Arbor, Mi 48104