Frequently Asked Questions about Herbs

1. What are Herbs?

Herbs are plants. They are the highest quality food known to mankind. They contain vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and trace elements in natural balance and harmony.

2. Why Use Herbs?

It is our sincere belief that our Creator put herbs on the earth to maintain and restore our health. We believe that herbs get to the cause of health problems, not just the symptoms. Herbs are whole and balanced; therefore they provide nutrition for our body to become whole and balanced.

3. Are There Bad Side Effects from Using Herbs?

No, although some people experience cleansing actions on the body when first using herbs; such as nausea, diarrhea, or headaches. It is this detoxifying process that helps bring the body into a state of health. When toxins, or poisons, that have been stored in the body are released, temporary (two to five days) discomfort may be experienced. Be glad when you have these feelings because it means you are ridding your body of harmful toxins.

4. How Do Herbs Differ from Drugs?

Herbs are food, not drugs. Many herbs can be taken in large quantities without harmful side effects. In general, mixing herbs has no more side effects than mixing carrots and peas.

5. How Many Herbs Do I Take and for How Long?

When using a new herb program, begin with a recommended dosage. When herbs are used for restoring health, Dr. Jack Richason recommends that these dosages be five-to-seven times that which is required for maintaining health. Depending upon the severity of your condition, approximately three to six months of sustained high dosage is usually required before the body begins to heal itself. Then add one month for each year you have had the condition.

6. How Soon Will I Notice Results?

There are many factors involved, such as the severity of the problem, the health of a person's digestion and assimilation, the amount of herbs taken, the stress a person is under, and so on. However, someone with problems such as constipation or blood sugar imbalance will often get excellent results within a day. Someone with joint pain may not feel any difference for several weeks or more.

7. Can I Stop Taking My Prescription Medicine?

Herbs are a gradual and safe way to build and maintain health. Continue taking medicine because your body may be depending on it. Many people have gradually decreased drug dosage and frequency with the use of herbs. Be sure to consult with the physician who prescribed them.

8. When is the Best Time to Take Herbs?

Many people take herbs with water, 15 to 30 minutes before meals so the liquid won't dilute their digestive enzymes. Herbs can also be taken with the meal itself, as you swallow your food. Others on a busy schedule take them first thing in the morning and last thing at night. (Some people who take their herbs after or between meals will experience burping.) Herbs for insomnia are usually taken at night. Appetite suppressants and blood sugar balancers are best taken as needed.