Some individuals are apprehensive when it comes to using herbal remedies as a first line of treatment. Before beginning an herbal routine, it is important to make sure you are familiar with the potential risks associated with treating yourself with herbs. In this article, we will discuss some of these aspects.
Some of the habits to consider when dealing with herbal medications include getting your symptoms and diagnosis correct so you do not take the wrong herb for your medical concerns. If the condition should worsen, it is suggested to pay a visit to the doctor, and if you are prescribed a medication, you should read up on various herbs that may counteract or pose serious side effects with they come in contact with another medical treatment.
Some herbs and plants are known for creating sensitivities in patients, as well as an assortment of side effects, including headaches, an upset stomach, skin irritations, as well as vomiting. This also varies in the approach towards herbal medicine that you decide to take. You should become well versed in the actions and side effects of each plant in question.
For example, the berries of the honeysuckle are toxic and should not be used to make any herbal remedies; garden-variety roses should be avoided in the creation of herbal remedies; and Colorado cough root (also known as alpine lovage) should be avoided during times of heavy menstrual bleeding. When dealing with herbal remedies, such as sweet violet and heartsease, you should know that very high doses of the plants will cause nausea and vomiting because on the level of saponins in their chemical makeup.
People who suffer from various medical problems, such as high blood pressure or heart conditions, should not take some herbal treatments. For instance, patients who are prescribed blood-thinning drugs should avoid herbal remedies that utilize the feverfew plant. The herb is known to affect the rate of clogging in such individuals.
The same is true when it comes to herbal remedies and pregnant women, who are often instructed to refrain from taking such medications during their entire pregnancy or in regards to specific trimesters. Peony herbal remedies should be avoided during pregnancy, while the essential oil of basil is forbidden for both internal and external use during pregnancies.
Start an Herb Journal
When just starting out with herbal treatments, you might want to start an herbal journal, which helps you keep track of the kind of plants that work best against various ailments. This will also aid in your quest to pinpoint the kind of herbs that create unwanted side effects. To get the most out of your journey in the world of herbal treatments, you can share your experiences with a doctor, naturopath, or herbalist, where they may suggest different kinds of herbs to consider when looking for alternative remedies.
An example of an herbal journal entry is shown below:
Date: July 4th, 2007
Herb Taken: (Internally or Externally): Walnut Leaves; infusion
Amount: One cup of digestive tonic
Noted Results: Bitter taste, but seemed to work without any side effects
Reason: Loss of Appetite