Herbs Tips and Precautions

Herbal therapies can be purchased in a variety of forms, including bulk herbs, medicinal herb mixes, teas, oils, tinctures, fluid extracts, and tablets or capsules.

Most herbs have gentle and subtle effects, rather than the immediate and dramatic results we see from prescription drugs.

Herbs are natural elements that help the body to heal and regulate itself. They work better together because the effect of one herb usually amplifies when combined with other herbs. Although most herbs aren't harmful, it's important to remember that "natural" doesn't always mean "safe."

Herbal preparations, similar to synthetic drugs, may be poisonous, elicit an allergic reaction or compromise the efficacy of other medications you are taking. Hence, it is crucial that common sense and caution are exercised when consuming herbs as either food or medication.

Here are some essential guidelines for herbal self-care:

• Use herbal self-care for minor ailments only, not severe or life-threatening conditions.
• Use only recommended amounts for recommended periods.
• Use the correct herb. Buy your herbal remedies from a reputable company. If you collect or grow herbs on your own, be absolutely positive in your identification.
• When buying fresh herbs, check which part of the herb is required for a remedy--the whole herb, flowers, fruit, leaves, stems, or roots. Use the correct amount of the plant. For instance, don't substitute roots for leaves.
• When using an herbal remedy for the first time, start with a small amount to test for possible allergic reactions.
• Don't take certain herbs if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
• Don't take herbal remedies if you are nursing a baby.
• Don't give medicinal amounts of herbs to children without first consulting with your health care practitioner.
  

When shopping for herbal medicines, it's critical to get high-quality goods from a trustworthy supplier. How can you tell whether a firm is reputable? Make a phone call to the company first.

You should always inquire about a company's history before you purchase anything from them, especially herbs. We suggest only buying herbs from companies that have been selling them for at least ten years and are following guidelines set by reliable governing bodies. This is not a stamp of approval, but it's a good place to start. If you want to buy herbs that are organically grown, look out for the "certified organic" label on the product. Choose herbal products that are standardized to contain a specific percentage of active ingredients extracted from the particular herb part known to be effective.

Source: Balch, Phyllis A. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Fifth Edition.” A Practical a-To-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs and Food Supplements, Penguin Books, 2010.