Side Effects Of Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies have been around since the dawn of time, since early humans discovered that chewing on tree bark would ease a toothache, or eating certain berries would sooth a sore throat. They may be natural, but many herbs contain chemical compounds that can cause side effects. The FDA does not oversee the production of herbal remedies, so consumers must be vigilant in determining the safe use of each remedy. The best way to do this is to consult your doctor before using any herb to treat a medical condition.

Self-Treatment

Doctors study for years before earning the right to assess a patient's needs and prescribe medication. But consumers can purchase herbal remedies, many of which can cause side effects, without considering the safety of the product. Without a professional diagnosis, the patient may be treating the wrong condition.

Misuse/Dosage

Misusing an herbal remedy can lead to undesirable or even dangerous side effects. Unfortunately, many herbal remedies do not list a recommended dosage, especially homemade herbal remedies. What may be beneficial in moderate doses, like ginger, can trigger side effects at higher doses.

Allergies

The mildest herbal remedy can wreak havoc if you're allergic to one or more of its ingredients. Echinacea is widely available in herbal cold and flu remedies, but if you're allergic to plants in the daisy family, you could suffer side effects from using the herb. Those with known allergies should talk to their doctors about potential herbal allergens.

Toxic

The Extension department at Colorado State University lists potentially toxic herbs as a leading cause of dangerous side effects. Willow bark, long used by Native Americans, and the forerunner of today's aspirin, can trigger Reye's syndrome in some children. Comfrey, found in topical preparations for wound and skin healing, can be toxic to the liver and harmful to a developing fetus.

Interactions

Just because a remedy is natural, does not mean it is safe, warns the Extension department. Garlic, a nutritious culinary ingredient, can interfere with other medications, such as anticoagulants or even aspirin when taken as an herbal remedy in high doses.

Precautions

The best line of defense a consumer has against side effects is to consult his primary physician before using a natural remedy. This includes harvesting and preparing herbal products at home. Read the label thoroughly on the package and do not exceed the dosage. General safety precautions include not giving any herbal remedies to children, pregnant women or nursing mothers, unless directed to do so by a physician.