Long before over-the-counter medications were the norm, our forefathers and the ancient masters of health ate whole food and herbs to ease their pain.

When I was in Japan, China and India most of the yogis and Buddhist Priest ate their food loaded with turmeric, curry and garlic when they felt puny. They applied poultices and used herbs from Mother Nature’s pharmacy. In recent years, scientists have identified the anti-inflammatory constituents in many of the most popular herbs, providing evidence to support what the ancient Masters knew. So the next time you over do it in yoga, martial arts, weight lifting or enjoying you favorite physical activity put down the ibuprofen, anti-inflammatory bottle of pills, and consider ginger, turmeric, mustard and a host of other herbs instead.

There are no one-size-fits-all in herbal medicine prescriptions. It’s always best to consult with a trained practitioner to get the most effective remedy for your problem. I contacted Dr. Mike Allen, Chinese Herbalist to ask his opinion.

He stated, “There are some simple remedies that are very safe.”

Regardless if it is called Ayurvedic, Chinese, Indian or Japanese it is still herbal medicine. Many herbs can be used internally and externally for bruises, sprains, strains and itching rashes. For instance, mix sunny yellow turmeric in powder form with honey or aloe gel and apply it directly as a poultice to sore muscles. For muscle strain, try rubbing ginger oil into your skin or adding powdered ginger to a footbath for a sprained ankle to stimulate circulation and decrease swelling.

Taken internally, turmeric and some other Chinese herbs are said to help stretched, strained ligaments and muscles, calm inflammation and ease pain. Dr. Allen, says that he uses powdered herbs primarily, that can be mixed with water, tea or sprinkled over food two to three times each day.

“You can swallow it straight, mix it with honey, or sip it with your favorite tea.”

Eating papaya and bromelain has been shown to help absorption. Mal-absorption is a big problem now with all of the processed foods on the market. There is evidence that taking ginger internally helps, digestion, arthritis by reliving the swollen joints. Again you can eat it raw make ginger tea, or take it in capsule form.

Dr. Allen, states that there are cautions to be aware of, that you can’t use herbs indiscriminately. For instance, the warming quality of turmeric, has the potential to boost the Qi (energy), it increases the metabolism a great deal and is not recommended for certain conditions. It is also not recommended for pregnant women. This is why a qualified herbalist should be consulted before starting on an herbal formula.

At any rate remember that herbs were around thousands of years before pharmaceuticals and have few side effects think of herbs when you reach for the potion next time in your medicine cabinet. Remember, have a happy, healthy, holiday season!! Any questions, comments or for further information please contact the author at one the following addresses: bamashogun@aol.com , www.alternative-concepts.com , www.gulfcoastnewspapers.com.