Just because herbs are natural substances doesn’t mean that they can be used indiscriminately. Herbs can be strong medicine. Before trying any herbal remedy, be sure that you know what it does, how it is used, and any possible side effects. Never exceed the recommended dose. A doctor should monitor the use of any medicinal herb, making sure it does not conflict with medications already prescribed, and will not worsen conditions already known. Also, the sensitivity or allergic reaction can best be handled by a doctor.
As a general rule, new medical problems can occur from ingesting herbal remedies, but the potential for an allergic or toxic reaction is always there. In addition, about 1% of all plants are poisonous. Therefore, it not recommended that people gather their own herbs unless they are skilled botanists. Pregnant women should take herbs only under the direction of a knowledgeable physician or midwife. Some herbs are contraindicated in certain diseases and/or conditions. Parents should check with a qualified health care practitioner before giving herbs to children.
The information given on this site is for educational purposes only. Used as a reference; not as a means of diagnosis and/or treatment, it can act as a guide, but only with the cooperation and advise of medical supervision. It is not within the scope of any collection of information to perform the medical duties of the health care profession.
Think of the body as a test tube in a chemistry lab. Anything that is put into that test tube, or taken out, will cause a reaction. If the reaction is desirable, fine. But if it is not desirable, it should be changed with the help of medical advise. Even water causes a change in body chemistry.
Some people think that herbal tea is good, simply because it is a natural product. This is not only foolish, but dangerous. Every herbal tea should be weighed against possible complications, side effects, etc., before taking on a daily basis. Everyone knows that a great many modern day medications originated from herbs. Even aspirin was originally discovered from willow tea. The herbs in herbal teas should be known and checked against any medication, whether by prescription or over-the-counter, for compatibility and/or side effects. Sometimes taking herbal tea indiscriminately can cause unwanted or unnecessary conditions or illnesses, even death. Always consult medical advise before using herbal tea or herbs in any form.
The honey referred to in the information given on this site is natural honey of the local region. The honey commercially obtained has been distilled and does not have the minute amounts of local natural flora.
As already stated, herbs are powerful drugs. They should always be used with care and under medical supervision.
