Various herbs produce different medicines, and people worldwide rely on them to treat their medical conditions. Herbal medicines have been used for a very long time for healthcare needs. The demand for herbal pills and herbal capsules is ever-increasing, along with advancements in technology and medicines. Herbal medicines are extracted from plants and used for general well-being and health.
However, before using herbal medicines, it is essential to use them with caution, just like any other medicine. Herbal pills contain unknown active ingredients, and if used without the rest of the plant, the active ingredient is useless. Because of this reason, it isn’t easy to give a measured dose of herbal medicines.
We have made a list of the most famous herbal medicines below.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a plant that is dried and steeped to make a powder. It is frequently used to reduce inflammation, boost brain functions, and energy levels. Ginseng long term usage is not considered safe, but you can use it for a short period. Although ginseng is commonly used, modern research does not support its efficacy. Some of the side effects might include digestive issues, sleep issues, and headaches.
Echinacea
It is a popular flowering plant used for herbal remedies and commonly used for burns, toothaches, sore throat, and upset stomach. Its leaves, petals, and roots all can be sued for medical purposes, but some believe its roots contain the most potent effect. You can apply for this medicine and can also take it in the form of herbal capsules. There is not enough data for these herbs long term use, but short term use is considered safe.
Elderberry
This herb is cooked from the Sambucus plant’s fruit to relieve headaches, toothaches, nerve pains, colds, virals, and infections. You can take it as a syrup, and you can also make tea out of it by cooking it with honey and ginger. Some researches prove that this herb can shorten expected flu duration, but more extensive studies have to be done. Although you can use this medicine for short-term, long-term uses of this medicine can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.
Ginkgo Biloba
This herb is derived from the maidenhair tree and contains many antioxidants that provide a lot of benefits. Traditionally, people used this medicine to make tea and tinctures, but modern uses of this herb include its leaf extracts application. You can also toast the seeds of this herb and eat it, but you can only take it in small quantities since it is toxic. You can use it to cure heart diseases, mental difficulties, and dementia. Although most people generally tolerate it, some of the side effects include headache, heart palpitations, and digestive issues.
Turmeric
Turmeric comes from the family of ginger. Recently it has gained a lot of attention for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to treat anxiety, chronic inflammation, and pain. It is considered safe if used in small amounts, but it can lead to a skin rash, headache, or irritation if used in a lot of quantities. You can also add turmeric to your foods while cooking.
Chamomile
We have all heard about chamomile as a flowering plant, but it also holds the right name in the world of herbs. You can use its dried leaves to make tea. Chamomile has been used for constipation, diarrhea, and stomach infections for centuries. It is usually considered safe and also treats emotional disturbances and menstrual cramping. It is safe to use but might cause reactions if you’re allergic to other similar plants.
Precautions to Take
If you plan to take herbal capsules, make sure to be aware of the possible side effects. People often assume that since herbal medicines are made from natural resources, they are safe. However, that is not the case, and even these medicines have some side effects like any other medicine. Also, please ensure the herbal medicine or capsules you buy are high in quality since they are not strictly monitored or regulated like other medicine by the government.
Conclusion
Although herbal medicines have been passed down for centuries, their usage and benefits lack medical and scientific evidence.
You also need to make sure that they can react with other conventional medicines if you use herbal medicines. If taken together, the harmful effects of both herbal drugs and other traditional drugs might outweigh their benefits. So it is essential not to take both of these together. However, if you still wish to take herbal medicines, contact your general physician, and he will guide you about which one you should take.
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