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Breaking Through
the Herbal Myth
Herbal medicines and dietary supplements are not as strictly
regulated to the arena of prescription drugs and
over-the-counter medications, so it's important to trust the
source before you start buying herbs as a means of boosting
your metabolism. The most important thing that you need to know
is what herbs are in the supplement or prescription that you
buy. Since entire plants are often used in herbal medicines,
consumers should be aware of the individual ingredients and the
effects they can have on you with prolonged or short term use.
A reputable dealer will always list the contents of herbal
supplements for you or provide you with a pamphlet to explain
it to you.
Because of the classification of dietary supplements by the
Food and Drug Administration, herb manufacturers are not
allowed to claim that herbs are effective for the treatment of
diseases and other conditions but that is another story. But as
history shows, herbs are time-tested throughout the world as a
safe and effective way to battle certain diseases and
afflictions.
Herbs act the same way as modern drugs and can be addictive at
times, so it is important to use them correctly and not take
more than the recommended dosage. Even though they are
all-natural, taking too much of anything often can have serious
health consequences. Some people also experience mild side
effects from herbal medicines although most do not. That is why
it is so important that you realize that even herbal drugs are
still drugs.
While some doctors will prescribe herbal medicines as well as
other treatments in combination, most people tend to use herbs
without talking to their doctor. Because herbs contain many
different compounds that may interact with other drugs like
prescription drugs and cold remedies, people who plan to take
herbal products should always consult their doctor before they
begin. This is especially important for pregnant women, and
people who take other medications and those who are especially
sensitive to medications or certain herbal products. So before
you start taking or buying herbal medicines over the counter,
make sure that you know everything that there is to know first.
It is just safer for you that way.
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