Herbs refer to all plants that can be used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. These include: trees, shrubs, mushrooms, lichens and fruits and vegetables. Apple juice and shiitake mushrooms which serve as food are also good herbal alternatives. Herbal alternatives can either be internal or external formulations.
The herbal alternatives you need to use to treat ailments generally depend on the type of ailment you have. Most people use a combination of herbs to get the maximum benefits. There are a number of herbal preparations which you can effectively use as herbal alternatives to prescription drugs. These herbal alternatives are derived from herbal practices handed down from generation to generation, even centuries old. Scientists and researchers have made several studies to prove or disprove the effectiveness of these herbal alternatives. Some studies do confirm the herbal alternatives effectiveness, others require further researches.
Herbal alternatives are frequently used to counter illnesses. In some parts of Europe and Asia, doctors prescribed herbal alternatives before they turn to prescription drugs to treat various ailments. It is important to note that the herbal alternatives are not effective alone. They also require the patient to supplement taking herbal alternatives with proper diet, exercise, mental attitude and other factors.
These alternatives must not be taken over long period of time even if you are treating a chronic illness. You should stop taking the alternative herb for some time before resuming at the regular dosage. Continuous use of the herbal alternative could cause possible side effects to the body and also increases the body's immunity to the herbal alternatives making it less effective.
When taking herbal alternatives such as antibiotic herbs or even prescription antibiotics, the natural bacteria found in our digestive system is destroyed which makes digestions difficult for days or weeks. To counter this effect, eat fresh real yogurt daily which has active cultures. You can also take acidophilus or probiotic capsules as alternative in order to restore the natural digestive bacteria.
When using herbs as alternatives to counter ailments or strengthen the body systems, start with small amount. Wait for any adverse reaction. If you do develop one, stop taking the herbal alternatives immediately. If not, continue with the therapy and gradually increase the dosage until you reached the maximum recommended dose.
Some herbal alternatives have drugs or nutrients reactions. For instance, ginkgo biloba has blood-thinning properties which could cause negative results when combine with other blood thinners such as aspirin. Consult your doctor first before using herbal alternatives with prescription drugs to prevent adverse effects.
Written by:
G. Metcalf
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