Five major herbal traditions have shaped modern herbalism. Each developed independently but all share a systems-based view of health — treating the whole person, not just the symptom.
1. Ayurveda (India, 5,000 years)
The world's oldest codified medical system. Based on three constitutional types (doshas): Vata, Pitta, Kapha. Treatment aims to restore doshic balance using herbs, diet, and lifestyle. Key herbs: Ashwagandha, Triphala, Turmeric.
2. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Views the body as a dynamic interplay of Yin, Yang, and Qi (vital energy). Formulas combine multiple herbs, each playing a specific role (Emperor, Minister, Assistant, Envoy). Key herbs: Ginseng, Astragalus, Reishi.
3. Western Herbalism
Evolved from Greek and Roman medicine through medieval Europe. Emphasises the doctrine of signatures (a plant's appearance hints at its use) and humoral theory. More recently aligned with phytochemistry. Key herbs: Echinacea, St. John's Wort, Valerian.
4. Unani (Persian-Islamic)
Developed by Ibn Sina (Avicenna) in the 10th century. Combines Greek humoral medicine with original Arab and Persian plant knowledge. Still widely practised across the Middle East and South Asia.
5. Indigenous & Shamanic
Hundreds of distinct traditions globally, each intimately tied to local plant biodiversity. The Amazon alone has yielded thousands of medicinal plant discoveries — many still unstudied by science.