Herbalism

The longest continually practiced health system in the world, Ayurveda, is full of insights for a long and healthy life.

Traditional Chinese herbal medicine (TCM) has evolved over thousands of years. It encompasses a person-specific approach coupled with mastery of magisterial prescriptions. Find out more in our Insights articles about Chinese Herbal Medicines.

Each place around the world has its own herbal history and practice. From region to region, not only does herbalism vary owing to the diversity of plants growing native to those lands, but by the practices uniquely evolved from the cultures and traditions of local communities. How people connect to the land, plants and medicine is studied by the field of ethnobotany.

In this section, find articles that share insights on herbalism from around the world. By learning the provenance of plants and wisdom, the people who first came to understand plants for their medicinal virtues may be honoured, and the lands where they grow protected.

Discover our articles about the latest herbal medicine research, science and herbal projects.

We explore the history of herbal medicine, historical herbalism and the history of medicinal herbs, including individual plants and their traditional uses.

Plants and fungi serve much more than just medicinal effect - they connect us with nature and bring us healing mentally, physically and emotionally.

We explore integrative medicine, examining how herbal medicine works within our healthcare systems and identifying where herbs hold their greatest potential.

Read interviews from a diverse array of herbal experts. From clinical herbalist's to scientists, nutritionists and academics here we share industry insights with you.

Herbal medicines are often very safe to take; however, their safety and efficacy can be jeopardised by quality issues. Buying herbal medicines from reputable suppliers, from sources known to test their herbs is important to preclude contamination, adulteration or substitution with incorrect plant matter, and ensuring that recognised marker compounds are at appropriate levels in the herbs. Some important quality assurances to look for are certified organic labelling, the correct scientific/botanical name, and the availability of information from the supplier about ingredient origins. Explore the articles in our Quality section to learn of quality issues in the herbal industry and assurance methods used to mitigate them.

Discover our articles about the latest herbal medicine research, science and herbal projects.

Do you know your herbs, their traditional actions and benefits? Do you know how safe they are and how to use them? Our expert insights articles take a look at safety issues facing herbalism.

The herbs we buy, eat, drink or take as medication are all intrinsically connected to the processes that produce them. This applies to all herbs in different degrees, particularly those herbs we use to support our mental and physical wellbeing.

Discover a range of articles on plants, herbs and medical herbalism, including herbal medicine projects, controversial topics, like herbal sustainability, and informative pieces