Herbal Therapy

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Paulette Russell Wilson, PhD, RN

What is herbal therapy?

The use of herbal therapies has been recorded in ancient Greece, Egypt, Rome, India, Russia, and China.  Many modern medicines came from Native American remedies.

There are many examples of drugs used today that are derived from plants and may come from the plant's leaves, roots, flowers or fruits.  Digoxin comes from a plant source and is used to treat problems with heart rhythms or heart failure.

Herbal therapy has been gaining popularity in the United States as a compliment to "conventional medicine".  In many other countries herbs are already regulated by the government and available by prescription.

Herbal therapies are considered a food supplement.  The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) does not control herbal therapies, so there is no guarantee these products are safe or effective.
 

Are all herbal remedies good for you?

Not all herbal therapies are safe for all people.  It is possible to have an allergic or toxic reaction to an herb. Herbs may interfere with the effects of your other prescribed medicines.  For instance, GINSENG that may be used to increase physical endurance and lessen fatigue has cardiovascular side effects such as High Blood Pressure and interacts with anticoagulants (Heparin, Warfarin) by decreasing the anticoagulation effect.  Ginseng also is known to decrease blood glucose so should not be used at the same time with antidiabetic agents.

Check with your Doctor and Pharmacist before beginning any herbal therapy so that you will know about the actions and side effects of the herbs and whether or not the herbs will interact with any other medication you are taking.
 

How should I choose an herbal product?

First, talk to your health care provider.  Then look for a brand that standardizes their product.  This means that the same amount of herb is in each dose.  Avoid products that do not list the ingredients and their strengths on the label.  The label should list the scientific name of the product, a lot or batch number, the date the product was manufactured, and the expiration date.