Whether you’re new to herbal medicine or have studied it for years, the number of choices in herbal supplements can at times be overwhelming. Sometimes, a single herb is all you may need, but at other times, you could benefit from several herbs working together in a formula. Here I will go through some of the pros and cons of both types of supplements.

 

Single Herbs

Single Herb Pros

• It may be all you need. Sometimes, a certain herb might be just what our bodies need. Especially if you only need one or a few different herbs, buying them individually is the most cost effective and efficient way to go.
• It can increase your understanding of the herb. If you are experimenting with different ingredients, working with single herbs can be useful because you can isolate each supplement and take notice of the effects it brings. In addition, by being able to see, smell, and taste an individual herb, your understanding of it and how it affects you increases, as does your connection to the unique properties of that herb.
• It can be more versatile. More often than not, herbs have more than one use, and sometimes their effects can change based on what other herbs they are paired with. For example, turmeric root can be used for liver support as well as aid in digestion or lower inflammation. Sometimes, working with single herbs can be beneficial because you can appreciate the herb for all of its different uses rather than just the use in a particular formula.
• You can directly control the dosage of each herb you take. Because the herbs are not pre-mixed, you can directly control the dosage of each herb and the proportions of one herb to another.

Single Herb Cons:

• It can be less convenient. If you are already taking several single herbs, it may be more convenient to take them as a formula, reducing the number of capsules or extracts you need to use.

 

Herbal Formulas

Herbal Formula Pros

• Formulas target specific ailments. When an herbalist creates a formula, they often choose several herbs that serve related purposes related to a specific ailment or health concern.
• Different ingredients can support each other. Herbalists choose plants that work together towards a common goal. Some herbs are more effective when taken together, and the herbalist uses their expert knowledge to create a synergistic blend of ingredients. For example, the herb Lobelia is often used in combination with other herbs because it can boost their effectiveness, allowing for deeper and faster absorption.
• In some situations, it may be more cost effective. If you are buying a lot of different single herbs, especially for the same or similar purposes, chances are there is an existing formula that brings those ingredients together. Buying several herbs separately can be pricey and provide you with more than you need, while a formula can allow you to buy in smaller amounts.

Herbal Formula Cons

• Proportions are set. Herbal formulas are mixed with their ingredients in certain proportions, so the dosage of the ingredients can't be adjusted independently of each other. While this may not be a problem for some people, if you are experimenting with different dosages of certain herbs, it may be easier to use a supplement of a single herb.

In the end, there is value in both single herb supplements and in herbal formulas, and what is best for you depends on what your individual needs. If you are still unsure which option is right for you, we recommend talking to an herbalist about your health goals. They can help guide you to the right products for you. Our Master Herbalist, Wendy, is happy to answer questions and can even compound formulas on request. She is available Mon-Thurs 11:00AM-1:00PM MST and can be reached by phone at 801.489.4500 or by email at winnieschwinnbotanicals@gmail.com.

 

About the Writer Emori Brown has worked for Dr. Christopher’s Herb Shop since 2018. In addition to writing blog posts and newsletters, Emori cashiers and works in the shipping department. She is passionate about providing people with the tools for improving their health and is excited to share knowledge surrounding the formulas and services we have here at the Herb Shop.