Alteratives

Alteratives is an old medical term, currently in use by those who practice herbal medicine or naturopathic medicine. The old concept was that an alterative was a "blood cleanser," and while blood is not normally "dirty" the concept has resonance. Most alteratives have blood purifying qualities that enhance glandular, liver, kidney, spleen and bowel function by speeding tissue restoration. Alterative herbs often promote the flow of bile, which aids digestion and fights against constipation, and they contain nutrients necessary to achieving and maintaining good health. Alteratives are also beneficial in treating external skin conditions. They work with a gentle eliminative function, stimulating bile, sweat or lymphatic flow.