The World Health Organization estimates that more than four billion people across the globe use herbal medicine as part of their health care treatments. For centuries, herbal and natural vitamin supplements have been used to treat various medical conditions.
History of Herbal and Natural Supplements
Herbal supplements, also called “botanicals,” have had medicinal uses for thousands of years, reports the Mayo Clinic. Used to treat illnesses or disease and symptoms, these supplements have also been used to assist weight loss, boost energy, increase mental well being and increase longevity.
Types of Herbs and Herbalism
Herbalism is the practice of using herbs for healing purposes. It dates back to the time of prehistoric man. Today, Herbalism consists of three main types:
- Chinese Herbalism: based on traditional oriental medicine
- Ayurvedic Herbalism: from India
- Western Herbalism: originally from Greece and Rome
These supplements are dietary supplements with the purpose of supplementing one or more parts of your diet. Often they are taken in pill or capsule form, but are also available as powders, in concentrates, soft gels, gel caps or liquid forms.
Using Herbal and Natural Vitamin Supplements Safely
To reduce any adverse health effects, following the Mayo Clinic guidelines when taking herbal or vitamin supplements:
- Take only the recommended dose.
- Do not take for longer than recommended as per instructions.
- Take one type of supplement at a time to determine if it works or has any side effects.
- Be cautious with supplements made outside of the USA. Some supplements, especially from China, India and Mexico, have been found to contain toxins.
- Don’t use supplements that have a questionable past or reports against them.
- Check the U.S Food and Drug Administration, FDA, website as well as the National Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine website to see if your product has been reviewed.
Side Effects of Herbs and Natural Vitamin Supplements
Like any medication, herbal or otherwise, side effects are still possible. Side effects vary depending on the herb used, but can include:
- diarrhea
- headaches
- stomach aches
- skin rashes
- anxiety
- insomnia
- uneven heartbeat
- high blood pressure
- heart attack
- dizziness
- fatigue
- seizures
Warnings of Misusing Herbal and Natural Vitamin Supplements
The FDA does not regulate herbal or natural vitamin supplements as closely as they do prescribed medications. The public generally assumes they are safe, but if not used correctly they can have adverse health affects. Be careful of the following:
- Side effects are possible from taking herbal or natural supplements.
- You can overdose on supplements.
- Some herbs may interfere with effectiveness and safety of prescribed medications.
- Some herbs can worsen any medical conditions you may have.
If you decide to take herbal or natural supplements, be sure to consult your doctor if you are:
- pregnant
- breast-feeding
- about to undergo surgery of any kind
- younger than 18 or older than 65
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References:
MayoClinic.com. "Herbal supplements: What to know before you buy" (accessed November 1, 2010)
Herbportal.com. "The Ins and Outs of Herbal Nutrition Supplements" (accessed November 1, 2010)
FamilyDoctor.org. "Herbal Products and Supplements: What You Should Know" (accessed November 1, 2010)
Tamara Laschinsky - Health and wellness advocate, author, researcher and owner of Natural e GREEN: Natural Health & Wellness store!
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