Definition

1. Noun:
   • The practice of using plants for healing: "herbal medicine" refers to the study and use of plants and plant extracts to prevent, treat, or manage illness and to promote general well-being.
   • A medicinal preparation made from plants: "herbal medicine" also refers to a specific product, such as a tea, tincture, capsule, or ointment, that is made from one or more plants and used for therapeutic purposes.

Usage Examples

• Noun (as a practice):
  • She studied herbal medicine for years before opening her practice.
  • The tradition of herbal medicine is ancient and found in cultures worldwide.
• Noun (as a product):
  • This herbal medicine is made from ginger and peppermint to soothe an upset stomach.
  • You should consult a doctor before taking any new herbal medicine.

Advanced Usage

• "Practitioner of herbal medicine": a person who is trained and skilled in using plants for healing.
  • The practitioner of herbal medicine recommended a blend of chamomile and valerian root.

Variants and Related Words

• Herbalist (n): a person who practices herbal medicine.
  • The herbalist grew many of the medicinal plants in her own garden.
• Phytotherapy (n): a technical, scientific term for the use of plant extracts as medicine.
• Herbal remedy (n): a synonym for an herbal medicine product.
  • Echinacea is a popular herbal remedy for colds.

Synonyms

• Botanical medicine: medicine derived from plants.
• Phytomedicine: a formal term for plant-based medicine.

Related Phrases

• Traditional herbal medicine: herbal medicine practices that are part of a culture's historical healing traditions.
  • Traditional Chinese herbal medicine uses complex formulas.

Noun

1. the use of medicinal herbs to prevent or treat disease or promote health
2. a medicine made from plants and used to prevent or treat disease or promote health