Quality of Herbs
Using both the energy and the chemical perspective while considering herbal medicine, we must also consider the same factors in how the herbs are grown and cultivated.
The therapeutic effect of the plants is only as good as the ability of the plant to retain the healing chemical compounds. In other words, it is only good as its abilities to hold its “energetic” qualities intact. I always consider these two perspectives in my selection of herbs for formulas.
Two plants grown in different environments can vary widely in their “energy”. Depth of color, aroma, vibrancy can indicate the health of a plant, and thus you can see, smell, and feel the differences, chemically and energetically. The growing environment is the biggest factor, for example, has it been wild crafted, taken from its natural habitat? Has it been cultivated, or has it been organically grown? Is the soil healthy and filled with natural nutrients. Whenever possible, we use organically grown or wild crafted herbs.
Herbs During Pregnancy
Generally speaking regarding pregnancy in animals I am a minimalist. If at all possible I suggest not taking any herbal supplementation, unless absolutely needed in a medical emergency.
100% Vegetarian
While use of animal parts and endangered species is common in TCM, we have chosen not to use these substances in our formulas. Fortunately, there are alternatives that make it possible to have 100% vegetarian ingredients. In addition, we use vegetarian capsules.
100% Natural
It is not necessary to add preservatives, yeasts, artificial colorings, calcium phosphate, magnesium stearate, glidents or flowing agents, binding agents and other common excipients; these tricks of the trade contribute nothing to a formula. In fact, these “extras” only serve to dilute the active ingredients, impair absorption, and require increased dosages. While creating herbal remedies without additives requires more production time and cost, it is worth the effort. Quality herbs produce quality therapeutic results.
Powdered Herbs
Powdered herbs are the most common form for administering herbal supplements. However, powdering is not ideal for many sensitive herbs or flowers as it may damage active ingredients that can break down when exposed to moisture or oxygen. All powdered herbs are tested for a range of contaminants and are given a Certificate of Analysis. Even with today’s technology, the exact active ingredients of any particular herb may not be identified. It may be that the exact combination of active ingredients is unknown, or that standardization is impossible.
Attempts are made to standardize herbs, yet, in so doing, we may be throwing the baby out with the bath water, as only selected active ingredients are used as the standard markers. Many herbalists are resisting this pharmacological, reductionism approach and staying faithful to the traditional use of herbs. This traditional use employs the full spectrum of active ingredients , while, at the same time, keeping the energetic activity of the whole herb intact. I believe in using full-spectrum powdered herbs or full-spectrum extracted powdered herbs.
Subscribe to our educational emails and updates
Have a pet health question? From arthritis in dogs and cats to diabetes in dog and cats- Ask us - Simply fill out our form and click submit – Click here for Pet Health Questionnaire