Ways To Make Use Of A Herb Directory Safely

By Eugenia Dickerson


Those who sell herbs would have their buyers believe that natural means safe. This is far from the case. Many medications used today are the synthetic equivalents of natural remedies, proving that even naturopathic ingredients need to be used responsibly. A herb directory can support the use of secure natural supplement usage.

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 one's treatment plan includes herbal preparations, it is best to limit oneself to brands with positive reputations. Naturopathic tonics are not put through the same stringent trials as synthetic medications are. Trustworthy brands offer herbs in the quantities listed on the bottle, and list every ingredient in their preparations.

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.

There are many patients who should not take any herbs at all. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid all herbs, since there is insufficient safety information in these circumstances. Those with chronic conditions or who are awaiting surgery should, too. People younger than 18 or older than 65 cannot safely take tonics listed in a herb directory.




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