How To Use A Herb Directory Responsibly

By Eugenia Dickerson


In contrast to common beliefs, not all natural ingredients are safe. Many of today's medications are merely synthetic copies of naturally-occurring substances, showing that herbs need to be taken with as much care as medications do. A herb directory needs to be used with responsibility, and under the guidance of a doctor.

Reference databases are not all equal. Some offer listings of all naturopathic foods, what they contain and how they can help to improve health. Others focus on supplements, while others offer information about herbal tonics in isolation. Since herbal preparations can carry a number of different names, a better listing will present users with all terms applying to each preparation. This is crucial, since those with co-existing medical conditions need to avoid certain herbs and it is easy to accidentally take something that is not recognisable under a different term.

Directories which offer information about the safety of every substance are invaluable. Substances such as ephedra carry FDA warnings and serious side effects. For this reason, safety information pertaining to everything one takes should be assessed, but those with pre-existing conditions or who are taking medications should only take herbs under the supervision of a medical doctor.

When adding herbal preparations to a treatment plan, it is important to restrict oneself to reputable brands. This is because naturopathic medicines are not subject to the same restrictions and standards as medical substances are. Brands that cannot be trusted may add herbs without listing them, or use irregular quantities of herbs in their products.

Some herbs are addictive and should not be taken by those with addiction problems. Ma huang, also known as ephedra, is among the most dangerous of these herbs. It has stimulating effects and restricts the appetite. Ginseng is not as addictive but it also acts as a stimulant that cannot be taken by cardiac and epileptic patients or women who are pregnant.

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.

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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