How Can Herbs Help and Benefit Us?

The most basic action of herbs is to feed us, not only in the physical sense but on a spiritual level as well. They enhance our vitality and tend to have a tonic action, like when we take a deep breath of fresh sea air into our lungs, or when we have a really good belly laugh. 

Herbs wake us up and help us to get things moving; that may be gently or with some gusto, depending on the type of herbs.
As can be experienced with more bitter herbs wormwood or tinctures; you pull that face that is instantly recognisable that you have just tasted something a little nasty. Saliva will start to flow, digestive juices in your stomach and intestines will kick start and your liver will activate. Your digestive system is awake and will be ready for what comes next. As the old saying goes "If it tastes bad it must be good for you".
So many of our health problems start with some form of lack, or depletion of the essentials that our bodies need. A lot of things in life draw on our resources, and if we are low on these resources then that's when trouble can strike. Things like stress, working continually, illness, not eating well, not exercising, drinking too much, not sleeping restfully, and not allowing enough time for plain old simple fun, can suck our resources dry.
We are not so good at recognizing the signs, and tend to ignore what our bodies are trying to tell us; tiredness, irritability, minor physical symptoms, and simply not enjoying life. It's not until things have gone too far and real and serious problems start to occur than we start to think something might be wrong with us. By the time we recognise this, we are unwell and it can be a very long and difficult road back to health.
Herbs can play a vital part in dealing with depletion of our vital resources.
They can help stop the vicious circle of bad habits and poor attempts to look after ourselves properly, by giving us some solid ground to stand on while replenishing our reserves. When our life force is stronger, a lot of our problems seem easier to deal with or they tend to simply fall away. When you are in a better position, physically and mentally, it is easier to make healthy choices and steer your life in a much more positive direction.
Their actions do not stop there!

Herbs contain a lot of compounds, some of which have specific actions on specific parts of our bodies, and many which act in synergy with other herbs to provide many positive benefits. 
Some stimulate, cascara bark, damiana, St Mary's Thistle  while others soothe chamomile, peppermint, and catnip. Others are general life enhancers ashwagandha root, gingko, ginseng and help us adapt to whatever life throws at us. 

Whatever your question may be, you will generally find the answer somewhere in the world of herbs. This is not to say that herbs cure everything, but there is nearly always something that they can do to benefit us. Where they cannot cure they can certainly help support you in coping with your problem, or until your resources return to normality.