Using A Herb Directory To Find Reputable Ingredients

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.

Databases that provide information about the safety concerns of the ingredients they list are extremely valuable. Ingredients such as ephedra have FDA warnings attached because they can cause serious side effects. Before taking herbs, one should assess how they interact with one's health problems and medications. This is best done with the help 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.

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 choosing a herbal treatment program, patients should get to know the FDA's role in regulating natural remedies. While they do offer a degree of monitoring, this body does not approve them based on trials. They do, however, ensure responsible manufacturing processes free of contaminants. All herbs released onto the open market are subject to FDA scrutiny, and safety concerns are announced on their website. This makes it safer to use brands that are manufactured in countries that offer this degree of regulation.

Supplements of any kind should be taken under the guidance of a pharmacist or doctor. Medical professionals who stay up to date with the data emerging about natural ingredients can supervise their patients well. It is important not to take dosages that are higher than what is recommended and to stay within suggestions regarding treatment length.

Some people need to avoid herbs altogether. Pregnant or breast feeding women, those who are about to have surgery, patients taking medication, and those older than 65 and younger than 18 should avoid all substances listed in a herb directory.




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