Herbal Medicine- Is It Safe?

With the recent arrival of Spring, plant life is in full bloom everywhere. It seems everyone is grateful for the re-emergence of Life from its long Winter sleep! Gardeners are working in their yards, people are out strolling, taking in the vibrant colors and familiar smells of the season. This appreciation of Nature’s gifts and plant life is shared among all humans that inhabit the globe.

In most cultures, plants are used extensively for their healing capabilities. Until the last 60 years, plants were the predominant form of medicine in the United States. The World Health Organization estimates that 80 percent of all remedies used around the world are plant-based. Another interesting fact is that many of the pharmaceuticals used in America are still made of, or were originally made from, herbs and plants. For example, menthol in cough syrups and topical ointments comes from mint, while the salicylic acid used in aspirin is made from white willow bark.

In my practice, I am often asked “Is herbal medicine safe?”. This is a very good question, and there are really many aspects to this question. Key points for discussion are: Is the use of a plant for the purpose of healing my body safe? Are the herbs pure and free of contaminants? Will the herbs interact with any of the pharmaceuticals I am taking?

The question of safety regarding the use of plants for healing can be addressed as follows: Many herbal medicines can be thought of as “superfoods” that are just as safe as the vegetables and plants that we eat for dinner. The herbs are a little more wild, and perhaps tough, so that we cannot just steam them up to eat them. Instead, we have to boil them and drink them as tea.

Many medicinal herbs are unfamiliar to us and not ordinarily consumed like we would plants such as broccoli and asparagus. However, when prescribed by a degreed Herbalist they also can be used safely and effectively. The herb companies that our center contracts with represent industry leaders. Their products are stringently tested for the presence of heavy metals, pesticides, and any other contaminants. These companies are certified and third party-tested to the highest standard. It is very important when using herbs to deal only with companies proven to be of the highest caliber.

Finally, a concern of many patients is how an herbal preparation might interact with any pharmaceutical drugs they are taking. The risk of an adverse interaction is very low when herbs are used under the guidance of a trained Herbalist working in conjunction with the patient and their Physician.