Herbal Medicine
Natural Products and plants have been used for thousands of years to maintain health and treat illness.They are the basis for many conventional medications.For example,willow bark tea was used for centuries to control fever.Drug companies learned to copy the chemical makeup of willow bark to produce Aspirin.
Herbal Medicines may do many of the same thing that conventional drugs do.
They may prevent illness.
They may cure infection.
They may soothe a fever or help wounds heal.
They may keep your bowels regular or ease your pain.
They may calm you down or perk you up.
Some herbal medicines may have no effect at all. Others may be harmful.
Like conventional medicines, herbal medicines and natural supplements may cause side effects, trigger allergic reactions or interact with other medications a person is taking.
There have been thousands of studies on the effects of herbs. Most of the research has been done in Europe and Asia, where herbal medicine is more widely practised. In the Unites States, the analysis of this research began only recently, and many new studies are underway.
Be sure to tell your doctor about any herbs or natural supplements you are taking. Pregnant and breastfeeding women and people with serious health problems should not use any herbal medicines or dietary supplements without first consulting their doctor.
Key Words: Health