Ways To Make Use Of A Herb Directory Safely

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.

Databases that are responsibly built will offer more than mere listings. Some list foods and their naturally occurring nutrients, along with their health benefits. Others focus on nutritional supplements. Still others offer information about herbal ingredients. Many herbs have more than one name, so a responsible listing will offer tonics under all the terms that describe them. This is a particularly important facet to seek out for those with chronic conditions, since some herbs are contraindicated under certain circumstances. Mistakes are easy to make when one doesn't know all the terms for the tonics one must avoid.

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.

Those who add herbal remedies to their treatments need to limit themselves to brands with solid reputations. The fact that naturopathic medications aren't controlled as strictly as medications are means that there is more responsibility on the shoulders of the consumer. Good brands will list all ingredients on the bottle, and use the stated quantities.

There are herbs that have addiction potential and thus need to be avoided by addicts and alcoholics. Ma huang is one such ingredient. Otherwise known as ephedra, this ingredient is a powerful stimulant that is extremely addictive. Ginseng is another stimulant that should not be taken by pregnant women, epilepsy patients, and those with cardiac disorders.

Before buying herbs, it is important to understand how much regulation the FDA provides. While these supplements receive a fair degree of monitoring, they are not approved. However, they do need to be manufactured responsibly so that contaminants and pesticides are not included. Supplements that are available on the market are also monitored by the FDA. If any negative side effects or safety issues arise, warnings will appear on the FDA website or the supplements themselves will be barred. It is thus safer to purchase naturopathic supplements made in well regulated countries.

A doctor or pharmacist can offer the most reliable monitoring of supplement usage. Those who stay updated as to new information about naturopathic remedies and their evidence-based trials offer a reliable degree of support to their patients. It is also important not to exceed recommended dosages or treatment time frames, since this increases the chances of side effects.

Some people need to avoid herbs altogether. Pregnant or breast feeding women, those who are about to have surgery, patients taking medication, and those older than 65 and younger than 18 should avoid all substances listed in a herb directory.




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