Are you considering herbal medicine to treat an ailment or illness?
In the past few years, herbal medicines have grown in popularity thanks to their holistic nature and effectiveness.
Still, many people are reluctant to try them. Why? Because this type of medicine doesn’t have as much scientific support as synthetic drugs.
But since the world of holistic treatments and medications continues to expand—about 73% of U.S. pharmacies sell herbal products—it’s important to stay informed about all your medication options.
In this article, compounding pharmacy experts from Uptown Pharmacy will discuss herbal medicine’s benefits and effectiveness. They’ll also go over potential risks and how to make a safe use of this medicine treatment alternative.
What is Herbal Medicine? Is It Safe?
Herbal medicine (also known as botanical medicine) is a type of medicine that uses plants to treat illness, improve health conditions, or promote overall health and well-being.
These types of medications and supplements are becoming increasingly popular by the day. However, they have their origin centuries ago.
For the longest time, individuals have used plants to prevent or cure diseases. In fact, many modern remedies are plant-based.
Herbal medicines are used to treat anything from a cold, fever, allergies, asthma, blood pressure, and more.
Are Herbal Medicines Safe?
Yes, herbal medicine is safe and highly effective. However, they must be treated like any other type of medication.
While you don’t need a prescription, experts recommend asking your primary healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking them.
Just because they are made from natural ingredients (flowers, seeds, roots, juices, oils, etc.), it doesn’t mean they can’t cause harm.
If not used correctly, herbal medicines can interact with other drugs you take, cause allergic reactions, or lead to an overdose.
Who Can Benefit from Taking Herbal Medicine?
Whether to use herbal or modern medicine is a personal choice each person must take with the advice of their healthcare provider.
While both medicines can be highly efficient, you can benefit more from one or the other, depending on your situation.
For example, modern medications generally have a faster and stronger effect on the body. That makes them the preferred option to treat serious illnesses.
Still, herbal medicine provides many interesting benefits, tilting the scale and encouraging my people to choose them:
- Less Side Effects: Herbal medicine is gentler on the body. Its healing effects might take longer and be milder, but you will likely experience fewer or no side effects (compared to modern medications).
- Improve Overall Health: Plants and herbs have countless medicinal benefits. Herbal medicine contains vitamins, antibodies, and other health-promoting agents. Besides treating your ailment, this medicine will strengthen your overall body.
- Avoid Interactions: Holistic medicine can interact with other drugs, just like modern meds. But if you can’t take a drug because it interacts with your medication regime, you might find a suitable option in holistic medicine.
- Save Money: Herbal medicine tends to be more affordable than mass-manufactured synthetic medications. Some even provide the same effect for a fraction of the cost.
Precautions to Take When Choosing Herbal Medicine
You can find herbal medication over-the-counter at many pharmacies. That doesn’t mean you should self-diagnose or self-prescribe.
Before taking holistic medicine, take these precautions to avoid potential risks:
Educate Yourself
Herbal medicine has countless benefits and can significantly improve overall health and well-being.
However, like any medicine, misuse can lead to dangerous outcomes, such as drug interactions or side effects.
Before taking holistic medication, do your research. Find out their benefits, correct usage and dosage, and if there are any potential side effects. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist and learn if the medicine you have in mind is the best option for you.
Follow The Label Instructions Carefully
Herbal medicine must contain a label with clear instructions. It may detail proper usage, ingredients, the effects on the body, correct dosage, and potential side effects.
Read and follow the instructions carefully. Never take a higher dose than recommended, and stop the treatment if you notice any adverse effects.
The level must also include who shouldn’t take that medication. Typically, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, children, and people who are having surgery
Watch for Allergic Reactions
Some herbal medicines are made with several plants or herbs. Check the ingredient list and confirm you are not allergic to any of them.
Research The Company
Research the company or individual who prepares the medicine.
Remember that herbal medicine is not considered a food or drug, so the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate it.
Therefore, choose a reputable manufacturer and ask yourself these questions:
- Is the information on the label exhaustive and easy to understand?
- Is the product tested and certified?
- Is there a website or phone number where consumers can learn more about the product/manufacturer?
Work with a Professional
While you can get herbal medicine over the counter, you can get enhanced benefits by working with a professional.
Today, many healthcare providers include holistic treatments and medicine as part of their practices.
Additionally, your local compounding pharmacy can combine different ingredients to make a herbal medicine that best fits your needs.
Final Thoughts
Holistic medical treatments, such as herbal medicine, are quickly gaining relevance in the medical industry.
These medicines offer tons of benefits and can treat a wide number of diseases and ailments. While they seem new, people have been using them for centuries to treat anything from a mild cold to reduce pain and control blood sugar.
Are you thinking about switching to herbal medicine or giving them a try?
You can learn more about herbal medicines, their benefits, and proper usage by visiting your local pharmacy.