What Are Herbal Supplements?
Modern herbal supplements combine ancient wisdom and science. From treating ailments to optimizing body functions, herbal supplements come in many forms. You will find herbal supplement teas, capsules, and liquid tinctures. They may focus on healing, reducing nausea, balancing hormones, or reducing stress. Others strive to increase energy or provide a wide range of other health benefits. We’ll discuss the difference between whole herb supplements and Standardized Herbal Supplements.
We adapted the following information from an article by our friends at NOW Foods.
Whole Herbs
Whole herbs are usually dried and encapsulated or preserved in a solvent such as alcohol. They contain all the constituents of the herb, delivering a full spectrum of benefits.
The main issue with whole herbal supplements is that the chemical makeup of each plant can vary. This presents unique challenges for ensuring potency and quality. Some variables are monitored but cannot be controlled. Harvest timing, climate, and the soil in which the herbs are grown are all considered.
Also, each population of herbal plants has its own set of genetics which can add another variable to the mix. Choose quality brands that base their formulas on science and use rigorous testing. We like brands such as NOW Foods, Nature’s Bounty, and Herb Pharm.
Standardized Herbs
Standardized herbal supplements consist of extracts from whole herbal plants. This extract will contain one or more of the beneficial components of the herb, not a full spectrum. The main reason for extraction is to ensure consistency and safe potency.
Manufacturers of standardized herbal supplements use science to isolate the individual compounds. They target the most beneficial components to extract. Some standardized herbal supplements contain an array of compounds that represent full-spectrum benefits. This standardization delivers whole-herb-like effects with the bonus of consistent dosage and results.
More of our favorite brands include Organic India, Gaia Herbs, and Planetary Herbals.
More of Our Favorite Herbal Supplements
Check out our herbal supplement department, where you can search by specific category. You can find Chinese Herbs, Men’s Libido Herbs, Parasite Formulas, Ashwagandha, Ayurvedic Herbs, Candida Formulas, and much more!
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