BotanicallyÂ? a herb is a plant with a non-woody stem which withers and dies down after flowering.
In common usage, however, the term applies to all plants whose leaves, stems, roots, flowers, fruits or seeds have culinary or medicinal uses. It is estimated that there are at least at least half a million species of plant in the world but only about ten per cent of the organic constituents have been identified. Herbs have been used as medicines since time out of mind. Their effects are proven by long experience and they do not have unexpected and unpleasant repercussions on the human body. Until the early years of the present century herbs were used as medicine as well as food in most parts of the world.
Herbs act in almost magical and astonishing ways. Spasm may relax, pains vanish, constipation overcome, nervousness recede, headaches disappear, colds be banish, allergies counteracted, fevers controlled, blood flow arrestedÂ?the magic is endless.
Traditional herbal remedies have led scientists to the development of numerous 'modern' drugs; from aspirin, tranquilizers and heart saving digitals, establishing beyond doubt the efficacy of herbs.
The practice of herbal medicines dates back to the very earliest period of unknown human history. There is evidence of herbs having been used in the treatment of diseases and for revitalizing body systems in all Ancient civilizations Â? the Indian, the Egyptian, the Chinese, the Greek and the Roman. Plants were the mainstay of medicine and credited with mystical and almost supernatural powers of healing.
Herbs play a significant role, especially in modern times, when the damaging effect of food processing and over-medication has assumed alarming proportions.
Herbs are an everyday part of Thai life, and are used in Traditional Thai healing for their rejuvenation and balancing effects on the Body, Mind and Energy. In fact, along with massage and spiritual practice, Herbalism is one of the three main branches of Thai Medicine.
Thai massage, unlike European massage, which targets muscles, concentrates on the major energy meridians, Sen Lines, that run throughout the body. It aims to harmonize the body, to loosen energy blockages, and to recoup deficiencies along these energy lines. It relaxes the muscles while stimulates blood circulation and energy flow. Hot Compresses are excellent for stiff, sore or pulled muscles and ligaments; back pain; arthritis; chronic pain or injury; disorders of the internal organs; skin diseases, migraines, and chronic stress or anxiety. A Hot Herbal Compress adds to these benefits the healing effects of therapeutic herbs.
The blend of traditional herbs used in theses compresses has simultaneously a relaxing and invigorating effect on the Body and Mind, soothing sore and overworked muscles while giving a boost for the body's energy level.
The Herbal treatment utilizes warmed muslin poultices of Thai, Indian and Chinese herbs that are steamed and applied directly to the body in a kneading action.
There are three main types of Compresses: Hot, Cold (varying from room temperature to ice cold)and Heating Compresses.
Shen Mantra offers a 2 days training where you will learn: The traditional use of herbs in Thai Massage, how to make your own compresses and a wonderful Thai/Ayurvedic massage technique and routine.
About the author:
She firstly became interested in Holistic Therapies 10 years ago while travelling through South East Asia and Australia. Seeing how the majority of the world uses more traditional methods such as herbs, body work or spiritual practices to heal the Mind and Body was an eye opener to her. She has extensively travel, studied and mastered Thai Yoga Massage & a variet of Oriental Therapies. She is currently finishing a Degree in Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture, as well as organizing Training and workshops worlwide.Website: http://www.shenmantra.com
Author: Francesca Canzano
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ITEC Level 3 Certificate in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology
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