How To Use A Herb Directory Responsibly

By Eugenia Dickerson


Many consumers believe that all that is natural is safe. In fact, many of the medicines in use today, such as aspirin, were discovered in nature and recreated in synthetic form. Herbs carry side effects and risks, many of which are as serious as those of other medicines. It is thus crucial to use a herb directory responsibly, with the support of a medical doctor.

Some reference databases are more useful than others. Some list foods according to their nutrients and how they support health. Others offer listings of nutritional supplements alone, and others list herbal ingredients. Because some herbs have several names, it is important to use references that list all of these. This vital service ensures that patients with chronic illness or who are taking medications regularly don't mistake an unsafe herb for a safe one. It is crucial to be entirely aware of all the side effects of the herbs one takes.

Databases that provide information about the safety concerns of the ingredients they list are extremely valuable. Ingredients such as ephedra have FDA warnings attached because they can cause serious side effects. Before taking herbs, one should assess how they interact with one's health problems and medications. This is best done with the help of a medical doctor.

When one's treatment plan includes herbal preparations, it is best to limit oneself to brands with positive reputations. Naturopathic tonics are not put through the same stringent trials as synthetic medications are. Trustworthy brands offer herbs in the quantities listed on the bottle, and list every ingredient in their preparations.

Herbs sometimes open up the potential for abuse and should be avoided by those with addiction problems. This is particularly true of ma huang, which is otherwise known as ephedra. It is a stimulant that is highly addictive. Less addictive but equally stimulating herbs such as ginseng should not be taken during pregnancy or by those with cardiac or epileptic disorders.

Before investing in supplements, it's crucial to understand the FDA's regulations. While this body does monitor naturopathic remedies up to a point, it does not approve them. The FDA does monitor the quantities used and ensures that pesticides and contaminants are not present. The organization also monitors these ingredients after they have been placed on the market. It issues warnings when safety concerns arise, which can be found on its website. This means that it is safer to take herbs that are manufactured in countries that use this kind of regulating body.

One of the most reliable ways to assess a supplement is by asking one's doctor or pharmacist. Those who keep themselves up to date with such information will be able to offer medical guidance that is evidence based. It remains important to remain within guidelines by not taking higher dosages or extending treatment periods.

Not all people can safely take herbs. Those who are breast feeding or pregnant are safer avoiding them altogether. Patients with epilepsy or cardiac health problems need to avoid certain ingredients, and patients over 65 or under 18 years of age should not take herb directory supplements.




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