The idea of displaying a health concern and prescribing a drug is not always the best option. Many people choose an alternative practitioner because they need a shift in thinking. Our bodies are physical vessels that contain our mental and spiritual states. They need to be in balance to achieve optimal health. Herbs and good nutrition help create a wonderful foundation.

Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)root isa beautiful woodland medicinalthat growsin the in the understory of our native North Carolinapiedmont and mountain areas. It is starting to bloom now and wake from slumber. This plant is a wonderful antispasmodic that is great for cramping and pain. Itmay also improve a woman’s menstrual cycle that is irregular or non-existent. However, use with caution or avoid in pregnancy.

False Unicorn (Chamaelirium luteum)is a root/rhizome to modulate and balance estrogens, a tonic for the uterus and ovaries. Other uses are preventing a threatenedmiscarriage, increasing libido or improvingirregular menses. It can be used for GI problems as well, includingmorning sickness.

Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa)is a North Carolina native thatcan be found in woodland understories. It has an anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory effect thatmay improve cramping pains of the gastrointestinal system, ovaries and joints. The best use is for knife-like pains in those areas.It is also helpful in balancing hormones and cortisol.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)is a wonderful tonic to calm the nerves, improve heart function, reduce spasms and calm anxiety. It is very useful in PMS-type symptoms and postpartum pain,as well. It impartsstrength and confidence,along with reducing heart palpitations and hypertension, improving sleepand reducing anxiety.

Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)is a wonderful,nutritive, mineral-rich herb, full of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium and other trace minerals. It has a calming and restorative affect on the body, good for balancing hormones and as auterine tonic,especially tonifying for pregnancy. It can be used to hasten heavy periods,as well. It is a mild astringent,making it great to reduce frequent urination. Gargling with red raspberry tea can improve tonsillitis and sore throat.

Dave Hamilton, ND, owns Of The Earth Wellness, located at 10715 Shopton Rd. W., in Charlotte. For appointments, call 980-272-1897. For more information, visit OfTheEarthWellness.com.