The Many Advantages of Herbal Medicine
Nowadays
is the era of everything that is herbal and natural.
Millions of “all natural,” “all
herbal” health and dietary supplements are swamping
the markets today. Some of us are puzzled as
to where and how the sudden exaggeration for those
things started. Maybe it was because we became
suddenly concerned and watchful of our health and
well-being. On the other hand, maybe the media
has so much influence over us that we often fail to
see beyond the glamorous models and endorsers.
History of herbal medicines
In any way, do not fail to recognize that usage of
herbal medicines and natural remedies dates back millions
of years ago. Archaeological remains from early
civilizations have revealed that plants were used
in burials and other rituals. The earliest written
account of herbal remedies comes from China and dates
back to 2800BC.
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Herbal medicines have had a chequered history ever
since, in and out of favor with the great and the
common man. But throughout the last 5000 or so years,
it has continued to develop until today, when in the
light of growing concern about the efficacy and side
effects of many synthetic drugs, herbal medicines
are once again providing a safe and natural alternative
treatment for many everyday complaints.
Among the listed advantages of herbal medicines and
natural alternatives are as follows: |
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1.
Cost-
Herbs cost less than prescription drugs. They
are certainly much more convenient. Without a prescription,
you can go to the health food store and buy whatever
you want. However, it is always wise to consult
with your doctor first before taking ANY medications.
Natural does not necessarily mean safe for you.
Many natural substances can be harmful. However,
it is also important to note that medicines are not
categorized as drugs. Alternative medications
are treated as food, not medicines, because they are
considered "natural".
They can be sold as dietary supplements without a
prescription. Supplement claims are not subject
to the same scientific scrutiny as prescription medications.
Unlike prescription medicines, herbal products do
not have to be tested to prove that they work well
and are safe before they are sold. In addition, herbal
products may not be pure--they might have other things
in them, like plant pollen or contaminants that could
make you sick. At the present time, testing and standardized
manufacturing of herbal and other supplements is needed.
2.
Effectiveness and Potency - Reasons for
seeking alternative treatments include dissatisfaction
with traditional healthcare, although the efficacy
of herbal medicines is mostly subjective to the patient.
Potency may vary, depending on genetic variation of
different strains of herbs, growing conditions, timing
and method of harvesting, exposure to air, light and
moisture over time and type of preservation.
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