There are sprays, pills, liquids, capsules, powders, injectables, slow drips, inhalants, gels, chewables, syrups, drops, creams, roll ons. . . . I think that covers them all. The best of the best are raw herbs. They are the odd looking twigs, branches, berries, leaves and other assorted gifts of nature. A typical decoction (a combination or mixure of raw herbs) consists of 3 to as many as 15 different herbs that look like something you would rake in the forest.

You put them in a pot (traditionally a clay pot), pour 5 cups of water and boil down to 1 cup. . . hold your nose. . . say a prayer. . . and sip away. They are usually not the most pleasant tasting creations (I am being VERY kind here) but the medicinal value is outstanding. However, it is the whole process that this part of the therapy.

The cooking of the herbs was the original version of aromatherapy. The scent of the herbs will permeate the entire house. That alone is therapy. The fact that the individual is cooking his/her own medicine is also a treatment in itself — the act of taking responsibility for one’s own health, as well as taking time for oneself. These are the “hidden” part of herbal medicine. The medicinal qualities of the herbs can be studied. These cannot not be but must be experienced. It is in the experiencing that the value is uncovered.

Unlike vitamins and minerals, herbs address not only the physical aspect of the individual but also the emotional and psychic (of or relating to the personality). For example, there is an herb called Eucommiae. It is typically used to strengthen the tendons, joints and sinews, particularly of the lower extremities. Ex/ tendonitis of the knees, prevention or treatment. Eucommiae also has the quality of bringing direction and organization to a scattered person; that is, one who “flys off in all directions” is tailor-made for such an herb.

I am writing about this because after Goofy and the hard training prior, it has been an up and down process for both Lisa and myself in terms of recovery. We have used the standards — glutamine, vitamin B12, magnesium, potassium etc., and they have been a help. When we used the raw herbs, it was an EXTREMELY beneficial process. Two doses per day and a dramatic improvement was noted.

They do not taste good. They take work to make. In fact, you would find multiple “problems” with taking raw herbs. If you want to experience a dramatic improvement, particularly in post-run recoveries, consider raw herbs.

Your health is worth it!