What does Synergy Mean in Herbalism?

Plants working together in harmony.

When we talk about synergy in herbalism, we are most often talking about how combined chemical constituents can help to create balance and bioavailability within an herbal formulation. What is the difference between extracts, whole plant and herbal formulation? We will be breaking down each of these concepts and their uses, as well as the way synergy can be seen throughout Algonquin tradition by use of the four sacred medicines and indigenous agriculture.

Let's first discuss what the whole plant synergy is. This is when all or some of the parts of a plant are used within the same preparation, rather than a specific extract. For this, let's use the example of willow bark (Salix alba L.). This plant has been used for thousands of years, by Ancient Egyptians, Sumerians, and the Greeks where its use was noted by Hippocrates in 400 BCE to soothe fevers, headaches and inflammation. It was later discovered, in 1763 that willow bark's most active chemical was salicin. It wasn't long after (1897) until an extract was synthesized, concentrated and put on the market by a company called Bayer, becoming what we know today as Aspirin. Using whole willow bark, however less potent in terms of salicin than the synthesized active constituent, contains flavonoids and tannins that work together to provide delicate and harmonious support. When we talk about the use of the whole plant or plant part over extract, it is often for this reason. Active plant constituents can be useful to help the body to assimilate more efficiently and effectively. Another example of this is using echinacea leaf along with its roots, both of which have been shown to support the immune system.

Now that we've discussed how synergy works within one plant, let's talk about herbal synergy in formulations with multiple herbs. For this, it is important to understand energetics, as they typically play a role in this. When making a herbal formulation it is important to remember the goal, balance. For this reason it is important to keep in mind the constitution of the herbs within it, and the person it’s going to. For this example, let's say someone is typically warm and damp, they struggle to sleep due to stress and anxiety, and are seeking support for rest. Although basil is known to support stressfulness, it is a warming herb, which is the last thing this person would need. However, making an infusion with lavender and chamomile, both mildly cooling in nature, may be more helpful to bring balance to their constitution, while also supporting a more restful sleep.

I think it's important when we talk about synergy, to mention its value in spiritual wellness and tradition. This is a pattern we see everywhere, harmony and togetherness working to create a delicate balance. The Four Sacred Medicines bring this balance of spiritual wellness into the light as something tangible. Tobacco, Sage, Sweetgrass and Cedar all have important roles in maintaining this harmony. Tobacco represents the East, opening the doors of communication to Spirit, allowing room for prayer and gratitude, a symbol of growth. Sage stands for the West, it is used for clarity, dispelling negative energy. Cedar is used for protection, a symbol of the South. The resin within the cedar leaf crackles as the plant burns, calling to spirits and making known the offering. Lastly, sweetgrass is a symbol of Mother Earth, the long blades braided like strands of hair to show strength. Sweetgrass represents kindness and gentleness, a sign of the North and of wisdom. These four sacred medicines, all gifts from Spirit, can and are used as separate offerings. However, when used together, they work to create a profound harmony. This to me, is a valuable symbol of spiritual synergy.

Lastly, I wanted to share a story with you all about how the Indigenous Peoples developed a way of farming rooted in that same belief, harmony. This is the story of the three sisters; there once was a family that was blessed with three daughters, the oldest was tall with long and silky hair, the middle child was short and strong, while the youngest girl slim and small but generous. These sisters fought day and night together, never giving in or letting up. One day their parents, tired of their endless bickering, sent them out to the field to do chores. As the girls stood there, arguing as they always did, the three sisters were suddenly turned into vegetables. The eldest of them was turned to corn, the middle child was

turned into a squash, and the youngest, turned into pole beans. This story varies from family to family but the moral stays the same. These vegetables when planted together, help each other to grow, working as one to create a more bountiful harvest. The corn provides a pole for the beans to wrap and climb, the squash plant bears large leaves keeps the earth cool and weeds away, and the bean plant fixes nitrogen to the soil. Stronger together than they are alone.

From herbal formulations and gardening to the active constituents within a single plant, synergy is everywhere. The delicate balance that keeps all living things just that, living.

Miigwetch

Note: aspirin is a necessary and valuable medication, willow bark is NOT a substitute for a prescription medication. As always, when it comes to using herbal products and supplements, the importance and necessity to consult your healthcare provider prior to use is invaluable. Herbs may have side effects, cause individual sensitivities, or interact with medications. I am an herbalist, my goal is to help you support your overall health and wellness. I am NOT a licensed health care practitioner, my consultations do NOT replace those of a healthcare provider. I cannot stress enough how western medicine and traditional wellness can and should be used hand in hand. Thank you and stay safe.