Many individuals take herbal supplements and other natural substances to aid in maintaining health and well-being. There are, however, a few things you should know before you decide to take any herbal supplement, since, as with any other medication, the risk of complications or reactions is present. This information includes:
- Tell your doctor what herbs and supplements – pills, teas, whole herbs, tinctures, extracts – and, if possible, bring in the bottle for your doctor to see. Read the labels to determine what herbs are present in combination.
- Remember: Natural does not mean safe. Cyanide is natural, but it can kill you. Herbal supplements have side effects and can interact with medications your doctor prescribes. It is best not to take any herbal supplements without first discussing them with your physician.
- Herbs, supplements, and even herbal teas can interfere with medications your doctor prescribes. If you are taking prescription drugs, be certain to talk to your doctor before taking any herbal preparations or nutritional supplements.
- Since there is relatively little quality control in herbal preparations, variations can occur and effects may vary from batch to batch. Some herbal preparations may be contaminated with other herbs, pesticides, or even prescription drugs, all of which may cause serious health problems. Avoid imported preparations.
- If you develop any new symptoms or medical problems while taking an herbal supplement, discontinue the supplement and notify your doctor immediately.
- Never take more than the recommended amount of any medication or supplement.
- Learn what side effects the herb or supplement you are taking can have. Just because the herbal lists none does not mean there are none. Get a good reference book to tell you about the side effects of herbs so that you know what to look for.
- Infants, children, older individuals, and pregnant or nursing women should not take herbal supplements without the approval of a physician familiar with their medical condition and their care. A pregnant or nursing woman can injure her baby by taking the wrong sort of herbs.
- Before taking natural supplements for a medical problem, talk about it with your physician. There may be other treatments that are more effective or less expensive.
- Herbs and supplements should not be taken for more than a few days without consulting your doctor.
- Herbs and supplements can have serious side effects, some of which can lead to serious illness, disability, or even death.
- It is your responsibility to let your doctor know what herbs, supplements, teas, tinctures, and other remedies you may be taking. If you don’t you may deprive your doctor of information that he needs to care for you properly. Tell your doctor what herbs and supplements you are taking – and bring the bottle.
- Report any change in your condition or any unexpected symptoms to your physician.
- Never take comfrey internally.
- Avoid making your own herbal preparations from whole herbs.
