But it must be recognized that plants too are potent drugs. Indeed, their active principles, isolated and synthesized, form the basis of many of today's drugs, from aspirin to morphine. In times past it was the tradition to take herbal tonics in the spring to restore the body's vitality after a winter diet lacking in fresh green vegetables. Among the herbs used as tonics were yarrow, dandrlion, sage, peppermint and rose hips, which helped to cleanse the system, and other herbs which were thought to strengthen the whole body, toning and invigorating its system. As research into the active constituents of herbs continues, increasing numbers of ancient treatments and tonics are becoming validated, revalued, and brought back into common use.
Some plants are dangerous under any circumstances, others are dangerous if taken inaccurately.
The quality of an herb is most important when it is to be used for healing. Pick perfect leaves, at their prime time, when most active constituents are present. Boiling water is poured onto a certain amount of the herb, usually the leaves or flowers, in a cut or other suitable container. This is covered with a saucer or other cover and allowed to steep, in order to give the ingredients in the herb time to pass into the water. The aromatic and volatile ingredients, vitamins, and essences are removed by the infusion.