Precautions On Using Herbs

Herbs are safe medicines when used properly. However, as easily as they can heal, they can harm or cause imbalances if improperly administered. They will produce no negative side effects if used in the amounts required to bring about a cure. The only time there is danger of an adverse side effect is when one fails to observe the cautions that herbalists have practiced for decades.

Many herbs can be taken over long periods of time without any harmful effects, but there are some that are harmful when taken without a break. These include such herbs as goldenseal, kava kava and horsetail. These herbs can be taken safely for 6 days but after that a resting time is necessary.

Most mild herbs can be consumed in large doses, but there are some that are already quite potent and if excessive doses are taken they will cause toxic reactions. These herbs include, but are not limited to, poke, lobelia, goldenseal, horsetail, black cohosh, blue cohosh, aconite, mandrake and many of the more bitter herbs.

Another instance in which it would be best to consult with your physician before starting herbal therapy is if you have high blood pressure. There are many herbs that stimulate the heart action or constrict blood vessels. These would include goldenseal, ginseng, licorice, lily of the valley and ephedra.

If you are planning to give children herbal remedies you must remember to decrease the dosage. When adult doses are recommended remember to reduce the amount accordingly for a children. When treating very young children, only the very mild herbs should be used, such as lemon balm and catnip.