Holistic Herbs Safety
Buying and Taking Herbs Responsibly

Just because herbs are natural it doesn't automatically mean they are safe! Don't worry - taken responsibly most holistic herbs are extremely safe. But there a few issues you should know about first...

Herbs are generally safe to use. Dose for dose, herbs are usually less potent than conventional drugs.

Herbs generally have no, or few, side effects for otherwise healthy adults – particularly in comparison to prescription drugs.

But, just because herbs are so safe to use, you shouldn’t be lulled into a false sense of security. There is still an element of risk to using herbs, even if it isn’t a great risk! Just because holistic herbs are natural, they are not automatically safe.

Don’t be scared of taking herbs, but do just take a few minutes to minimise the risk to yourself and your family, and learn how to take herbs responsibly.

Remember, that the vast majority of people do take herbal remedies with no ill effects at all!

• Don’t give herbal remedies to children without consulting a doctor.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding don’t take herbal remedies without consulting your doctor.
• If you have any existing illness or condition, or are taking any medication, don’t take herbal remedies without consulting your doctor.
• If you are over 65, you may find that you are more susceptible to side effects. Keep your dosages small, and keep a look out for any side effects which may occur.
• Allergic reactions may occur from any natural health remedies.
• Always be aware that you may suffer an unexpected reaction or side effect to a herbal remedy you are taking. Be alert for any reaction which may be caused by holistic remedies you are taking. If this happens, discontinue use, and consult a doctor.
• Always follow instructions and dosages on any packaging or labels, or from any qualified practitioner whom you have consulted.
• Research holistic herbs and other natural health remedies thoroughly before taking them, and always make yourself aware of any possible side effects, or interactions with other herbs or drugs.
• Always remember to consult your healthcare provider before taking any decisions regarding your health.

Choosing which holistic herbs to buy

It can be difficult to decide which holistic herbs to buy – there is such a huge choice – all different:

• brands
• potencies
• dosages
• sizes
• prices

It can be very difficult to make sure you are buying a quality product that will do you some good, as well as getting good value for money.

Here are some pointers that you may want to bear in mind, as you are making your choice of holistic herbs…

• Choose a reliable supplier. Be a bit wary of products that are unexpectedly cheap, or make unlikely claims.
• Some herbal products are sometimes contaminated with potentially harmful substances. To reduce the risk of encountering this, always choose products from a reputable supplier.
• Decide on the type of herbal preparation you want (more about the types of remedy you can use, here…)
• Do you want to only take an organic preparation? This should be guaranteed free from chemicals at any point in its growth and preparation.
• Compare the active ingredient in different preparations.
• Decide between the whole herb or the standardised extract.
• Compare the dosages required, and the number of doses in the product.
• Check that the packaging is security sealed and has an expiry date.
• Some herbs should only be taken for a maximum amount of weeks or months.
• Some herbs can interact badly with:
  • other drugs
  • other herbs
  • caffeine
  • alcohol

You should make it your responsibility to make sure the herbal remedies you intend to take are safe, suitable for the purpose, and suitable for you as an individual.

Always remember to consult your healthcare provider before taking any decisions regarding your health.

Throughout the pages of this website, and where appropriate, I have tried to source holistic herbs and natural health remedies supplies from quality, reputable sources that appear good value and at affordable prices.

(Of course, no guarantees can be made or any responsibility taken for products purchased from any of the companies appearing on the site.)

The choices may assist you with your purchasing decisions, but do rely on your own judgement when choosing products for your health, and the health of your family.

Some of the products you may see on this site are advertisements through a third party (and all are marked as such). The adverts are provided as a service to you, and I hope you will find some of the products interesting and useful. You should, however, investigate the product on offer carefully and ensure you are happy with the quality of the product before you make any purchase.

See my 'pick of the best' herbal suppliers, with my holistic shop reviews

Find out more about the different types of herbal remedies available.

Get more information on what to look for when buying herbs.

Have you got your free subscription to 'Natural Healings' yet? Receive your free, monthly, e-mail newsletter, full of my latest natural health remedies information, and holistic healing guidance, straight to your inbox.

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