The Safe Use of Medicinal Herbs

Consumers of commercial herb preparations would do best to educate themselves about what they are buying and using medicinally. Herbs can be potent. Read labels, pay attention to recommended dosages, and avoid combining herbs on your own. Although in many cases this book identifies several herbs that may address the same health problem, in no way does it imply that a person should use all of them at one time. Many commercially available herbal teas contain blends of herbs to enhance flavor and benefit, but consumers should be cautious about mixing herbs on their own.
It is best to seek the advice of a health-care professional before beginning the use of herbal therapies. Especially if you use prescription drugs, seek advice before turning to herbal remedies, because some combinations of herbs and pharmaceuticals can be dangerous or cause undesirable side effects. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should be especially careful about using herbal remedies, and parents should seek advice before giving herbal remedies to children.