Herbal medicine

Herbal medicine, or phytotherapy, is an alternative healing method in which the mind plays an important role in physical health. According to phytotherapists, the cause of a physical ailment is actually due to an imbalance between the mind and the body. This balance can be restored using 100% herbal remedies. Unlike homeopathy, which uses minute doses of active substances from medicinal plants, herbal medicine administers the active substances from medicinal plants in their normal dosages.

What is the difference between herbal medicine supplements?

It is difficult to draw a clear line between these two, especially because herbal medicine can be described as a subcategory of all supplements. However, in most cases, herbal medicine is made from plants, plant parts, roots, herbs, spices, and other organically occurring bio-organisms. This means that most herbal medicines are more complex at a biochemical level, while most other supplements can be just a mix of a few basic nutrients or a single nutrient.

However, again, it is very difficult to draw a clear line between these two categories, as both categories are very closely related. Both can have their own advantages and disadvantages.

ARE HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS SAFE?

The majority of herbal supplements are regulated in most countries around the world, but not in the same way as any type of food or medicine. In most countries, herbal supplements fall under the category of dietary supplements. This means that most herbal supplements on the market must follow certain production practices and meet quality standards. They cannot be sold with specific medical claims. This makes it easier for sellers and marketers to be flexible about the actual purposes of a particular herbal supplement.

This also means that in most countries, there are no specific rules to guarantee the safety of most herbs and/or dietary supplements. Therefore, it is very important to also conduct personal research into dietary supplements/herbal supplements and to only buy them from reliable sources.

Most herbal supplements contain certain types of complex chemical structures found in nature. Their effects can therefore vary from user to user. Furthermore, they can be considered a real health risk when used in combination with other supplements, drugs, or prescription medications.

For this reason, you should always consult with your doctor and a qualified professional before deciding to experiment with herbal or dietary supplements. Furthermore, always start slowly and be fully aware of how your body reacts to a minimal dosage. This way, you can minimize health risks.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF THE HERBAL SUPPLEMENT WORKS AS THE SUPPLIER CLAIMS?

It is always advisable to research the manufacturer's claims yourself and to verify if those claims align with reliable sources. Try to find the most objective, research-based information and then evaluate the potential benefits and risks.

When can you not use herbal supplements?

Different dietary supplements can carry different risks for different users. There are some initial steps to consider before experimenting with any dietary or herbal supplement.

You should not take dietary supplements if you are under 18 or over 65 years old. You should also not take them if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should also be very careful with dietary supplements if you have serious health problems or if you are currently taking prescription or other over-the-counter medications. 

Also try to avoid dietary supplements if you are scheduled for surgery soon or are seeking medical treatment. The best way to ensure that it is safe for you to take any dietary or herbal supplements is to consult with a doctor and/or other licensed professionals. Also avoid mixing supplements with any form of recreational substances.

What is the best safety advice for using herbal supplements?

Evaluate your overall physical, mental, and medical condition before experimenting with a new substance, and ensure all those conditions are perfect. Do not attempt to seek alternative remedies if you have problems with your health in general.

Follow the supplement instructions and never exceed the recommended daily dosages. Additionally, do not take supplements for longer periods than advised. Stop using a supplement if you notice any negative side effects or if you feel the supplement is not working for you.

Do not experiment with more than one supplement at a time. Also, keep track of your consumption to better assess the actual value or benefits of a supplement. Also, choose your supplements wisely. Therefore, only choose reliable suppliers and always check the warnings/advice about the supplement you plan to take.