Meaning of herbsHow we arrive at our herb definitionYou would think the answer to what’s the meaning of herbs would be easy & not controversial. Not so.
First we describe how we arrive at our herb definition starting with the broadest meaning to what we eventually arrive at.
Arriving at an herb definition* Most broadly, an herb is simply a thing that was once living. It is not a supplement that was developed in a lab. However, an herb could be something that was modified, isolated, broken down, etc. For example, a capsule or a tea that comes from an herb.* So an herb is simply any plant, tree or shrub. It must come from some plant-like organism not animal stuff. * Now, some herbs are consumable by other living beings. That is, herbs that can be eaten or applied. Other herbs are not consumable and may even be poisonous. So when we speak of herbs, we are specifically referring to those that can be consumed. * Another criterion is that an herb should be useful not simply for flavoring like a spice. What we mean by herb is that it is useful for health. Now, that is not to say that an herb that simply enhances the flavor, aroma or appeal of some other thing is not an herb. It is but what we are concerned with is herbs that are medicinal. However, it’s probable that all herbs are medically useful. We just haven’t arrived at an understanding of what every herb does or how to get its benefit. So we arrive at a definition of herb that is very much like how people use the term herbal remedies. It helps or corrects or prevents something we want managed. * So we have filtered our meaning of herbs, sort of boiled it down but we do not want to over-particularize our herb definition. For example, we don’t use the term as a pot smoker might who uses “herb” to specifically refer to one extra valued herb, cannabis. Herb does not refer to some ONE herb. I could almost hear some readers making arguments for cannabis being a valued herbal remedy but that’s another story. So what are we left with? Drum roll please. The meaning of herbs on our site: "A living or formerly living member of the plant kingdom (including trees & shrubs) that is consumable or usable by members of the animal kingdom that has health benefits." Want the best, organic herbal remedies, Click here. If you liked our page on the meaning of herbs & want to get our helpful info every month, subscribe to our free monthly newsletter: HEALTHY WORLD DIGEST You'll receive anywhere from 5 - 10 healthy “nuggets” of information to get you feeling & looking your best. Just fill in our brief eZine subscription form & start to take charge of your life easily, today, right now. We promise. Click 2 go from meaning of herbs 2 Home |
