About 25 percent of drugs prescribed worldwide are derived from plants. These are compounds from roots, stems, and leaves, barks to seeds used in different ways to help relieve different diseases. They are used for medicinal purposes and are often used as a complementary supply.
Its history dates back to time immemorial and current scientific medicine traces its roots to it. Contemporary society uses thousands of herbal options for scientific medication.
Research from a 2018 focus group study, suggests that people may use herbal medicine because;
They are dissatisfied with conventional medicine. The ineffectiveness of some of the scientific approaches becomes a problem and most people look for other options in herbal medicine.
High prices. As much as they may be quick and effective, contemporary medicine is quite expensive making herbal medicine available and a better option than nothing.
Fewer side effects. Unlike conventional medicine, herbal medications are known to have fewer side effects. For example st. John's wort is a better choice than most antidepressants.
They have varied ways of ingestion from herb to herb and from being taken as food or with food, tablets, and ointment.
Are known to cure more than one condition. Most prescription drugs are designed for one specific health condition and unlike herbal approaches which act on several parts of the body at once.
Easier to obtain than prescription medications. Herbal products ie extracts of essential oils are available at any store and do not necessitate visiting a doctor.
Religious and cultural constraints. Scientific inventions and technological advancement do not sit well with some Religious beliefs and they do not believe in scientific medicine forcing them to herbal medicine.
Some research suggests that the prevalent use of herbal medicine is among the older generation. This might be due to their better understanding of its importance. World Health Organization (WHO), estimates that 88% of countries use herbal medicine noting that 40% of pharmaceutical drugs and landmark medicines like aspirin originated from herbal medicine.
Unlike conventional methods, the use of herbal medicine is highly varied and influenced by many variables including age, gender, and health condition among others. Its ingestion is also in many ways but the most popular ones include in form of teas, powder, extracts, gel, adding to bath water, etc. There is no standardized way of using herbal medicine and patients are advised to consult professionals first.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, warns that supplements can increase or decrease the effectiveness and side effects of conventional prescriptions. It's crucial to inform your doctor before taking complementary herbal medicine. Some experts do not recommend using herbal medicine especially among high-risk groups like pregnant women, those under surgery, younger than 18 years, older than 65 years, and breastfeeding mothers.
Examples of herbal
medicine and their use include;
Aloe Vera
It's a popular plant product mostly used for acne, skin injuries, burns or cuts, and digestive problems. Its gel is extracted and applied on the skin directly or ingested in a more processed form. They may, in some instances cause abdominal pain and cramping, burning, itchy sensation, etc. It should be used cautious manner.
Garlic
This is an everyday ingredient in our kitchen but its use goes beyond that. It's known to help with high cholesterol levels but it might in the process cause bleeding if taken orally.
Ginger
Is a plant product used to ease stomach upsets, nausea among pregnant women, and menstrual cramps. Its side effects may include abdominal discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, and mouth or throat irritation.
Echinacea
It's a flowering plant used to treat a variety of ailments including burns, toothaches, and sore throat among others. Its roots, leaves, petals, and barks are used differently in form of tea or applied topically. One review found that 4 thousand people found a 10-20% reduced risk of colds from taking echinacea. Side effects of echinacea may include nausea and stomach pains.
Valerian
Also known as nature's valium is a plant whose roots are thought to induce tranquility and a sense of calm. It may be dried and consumed in capsule form or steeped to make tea. It is used to treat insomnia, anxiety, headache, and heart palpitations. It's relatively safe but may cause mild side effects like drowsiness.
Despite medical and technological advancements of the modern era, herbal medicine demand globally is on the rise. It's estimated that the industry grosses around 60 billion dollars annually. Precaution is of the essence when consuming herbal medicine.
Most individuals presume by its natural nature, it's safe but that is not necessarily the case. With a variety of herbal medicine readily available in the market, inherent toxicity induced by altering can cause harm to your health. Remember herbal approaches lack regulation and dosage instructions and may pose a risk to your health.
