Most herbal formulas fall into two categories, tonics and acute remedies. Understanding these labels is a key to understanding the ways herbs work with and support the body.

Understanding Tonic vs Acute Herbal Remedies

A tonic is a formula meant to be taken over time for overall support and strengthening of body systems. Tonics are gentle and restorative.

Acute remedies are more pointed, potent and have immediate effect. Some herbs can be both and in this case dosage makes all the difference.

When to Apply Tonic vs Acute remedies.

Working with a qualified practitioner is the easiest way to determine what sort of herbs work best, as each specific person and situation are so individualized. However, to understand the difference between when to use tonic vs acute herbs consider the following examples.

A singer living in a smoggy city wants to keep their breathing clear and open. They might use tonic herbs for the lungs that will support the respiratory system to be healthy and strong. Tonic herbs would be taken in lower less frequent doses over a longer period of time.

For someone who has had an exposure and wants to prevent illness or someone who has succumbed to illness and needs immediate and potent support, an acute remedy with higher and more frequent dosage for a shorter time would be a better fit.

Dosages of Tonic & Acute Remedies

The dosage for tonics and acute formulas will depend on the types of herbs used. A tonic formula may only be taken once a day and in less of a quantity. Whereas the dosage for an acute formula could be multiple droppers every few hours for a few days, lessening in size and frequency with recovery.

A qualified herbal practitioner can work with you to develop a tonic formula to support your overall well being or tonify a particular body system, or recommend an acute formula to address illness urgently.

Taking a custom made tonic supports people in getting to know different plants and their uses gradually and developing an understanding and a relationship with plants overtime that will grow and flourish.