photo D.Bock
Physicians have valid concerns about the use of herbal medicines and how they will affect a physician prescribed drug treatment. Herbalists are very aware of these concerns. Many herbalists are cautious and conservative in their treatments when there are prescribed medications involved. Often herbalists will suggest dietary changes rather than use prescribed herbs. This is done to keep the patient out of an uncomfortable spot between physician concerns and the herbalist prescriptions.
The truth is that herbs prescribed by a nationally certified herbal practitioner are very safe. The real problem comes from patients self prescribing herbal or home remedies without understanding the nature of what the treatments will do. Herbal advice out of a magazine or off of a website, does not take into account all of the variables that are specific to the patient. Herbs can and do affect the absorption and metabolism of modern pharmaceuticals. It is important to know how various herbs and drugs are processed through the body. Herbs can help pharmaceutical medicine work better, control side effects and help the overall health of the patient.
It is important for all patients to ask questions. Understand why you are on a drug or herb, and what it does. Always get advice from someone who can look at everything about you, your medical history and determine what you really need. Before you seek out herbal advice, check out these guidelines to proper herbal use.
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