herbal medicine   also called botanical medicine refers to using a plant's seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark or flowers for medicinal purposes. Plants had been used for medicinal purposes long before recorded history. Ancient Chinese and Egyptian papyrus writings describe medicinal uses for plants. Indigenous cultures such as African and Native American used herbs in their healing rituals, while others developed traditional medical systems such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine in which herbal therapies were used. Researchers found that people in different parts of the world tended to use the same or similar plants for the same purposes.
In many cases, scientists aren’t sure what specific ingredient in a particular herb works to treat a condition or illness. Whole herbs contain many ingredients, and they may work together to produce a beneficial effect. Many factors determine how effective an herb will be. Often, herbs may be used together because the combination is more effective and may have fewer side effects.
Herbal medicine is used to treat many conditions such as asthma, eczema, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, menopausal symptoms, chronic fatigue, and irritable bowel syndrome, among others. Herbal supplements are best taken under the guidance of a trained health care provider.  Taking herbs on your own increases your risk, so it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking herbal medicines. Currently, no organization or agency regulates the manufacture or certifies the labeling of herbal preparations. In some countries in Europe unlike the U.S. herbs are classified as drugs and are regulated. While still not widely accepted, herbal medicine is becoming increasing popular.