Herbal Medicines
The Many Advantages of Herbal Medicine
Nowadays is the era of everything that is herbal and natural. Millions of "all natural," "all herbal" health and dietary supplements
are swamping the markets today. Some of us are puzzled as to where and how the sudden exaggeration for those things started.
Maybe it was because we became suddenly concerned and watchful of our health and well-being. On the other hand, maybe the media
has so much influence over us that we often fail to see beyond the glamorous models and endorsers. In any way, do not fail to
recognize that usage of herbal medicines and natural remedies dates back millions of years ago. Archaeological remains from early
civilizations have revealed that plants were used in burials and other rituals. The earliest written account of herbal remedies comes
from China and dates back to 2800BC.
Herbal medicines have had a chequered history ever since, in and out of favor with the great and the common man. But throughout
the last 5000 or so years, it has continued to develop until today, when in the light of growing concern about the efficacy and side
effects of many synthetic drugs, herbal medicines are once again providing a safe and natural alternative treatment for many everyday complaints.
Among the listed advantages of herbal medicines and natural alternatives are as follows:
1. Cost- Herbs cost less than prescription drugs. They are certainly much more convenient. Without a prescription, you can go to the
health food store and buy whatever you want. However, it is always wise to consult with your doctor first before taking ANY medications.
Natural does not necessarily mean safe for you. Many natural substances can be harmful. However, it is also important to note that
medicines are not categorized as drugs. Alternative medications are treated as food, not medicines, because they are considered "natural".
They can be sold as dietary supplements without a prescription. Supplement claims are not subject to the same scientific scrutiny as
prescription medications. Unlike prescription medicines, herbal products do not have to be tested to prove that they work well and are safe
before they are sold. In addition, herbal products may not be pure--they might have other things in them, like plant pollen or contaminants
that could make you sick. At the present time, testing and standardized manufacturing of herbal and other supplements is needed.
2. Effectiveness and Potency - Reasons for seeking alternative treatments include dissatisfaction with traditional healthcare, although
the efficacy of herbal medicines is mostly subjective to the patient. Potency may vary, depending on genetic variation of different
strains of herbs, growing conditions, timing and method of harvesting, exposure to air, light and moisture over time and type of preservation
Learn more about how Herbal Medicines can keep you young
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