It is also noted that our study does not consider the general population in Germany because all of the FGs were conducted in the same regional area and participants were selected based on a general interest in HM. Nevertheless, the combination of self-medication, non-expert consultation and missing risk awareness reported here is potentially harmful, especially if people do not report the HM use to their doctor, which is a phenomenon frequently discussed in literature [ 8 , 19 , 23 , 36 , 58 , 67 , 68 ].
This issue is problematic, especially for elderly users, who appeared to be more aware of health-related issues, but also use more prescribed and non-prescribed medicine compared to younger ones [ 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 ]. It is therefore necessary that government bodies, doctors, and pharmaceutical companies aim to establish a certain minimum level of consumer awareness regarding the side and interaction effects of HM.
It is equally important that these health-related decision-makers are aware of the dissatisfaction with CM, this being the most important reason for a preferred use of HM. Looking ahead, a consistent terminology and common set of CAM definitions, for example, what exactly constitutes HM as a form of treatment and whether, or to what extent, it is part of CAM, would be an important step towards more validity and comparability in this field [ 32 ].
Building on this, further well-designed research is necessary to obtain a detailed picture of prevalence rates, use-related factors, and reasons for the usage of HM. Trends in alternative medicine use in the United States, results of a follow-up National Survey. Article Google Scholar. Utilization of complementary and alternative medicine by United States adults: results from the national health interview survey.
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Expenditure on complementary medicine in England: a population-based survey. Thomas K, Coleman P. Use of complementary or alternative medicine in a general population in great Britain. Results from the National Omnibus survey.
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Antioxidants scavenge free radicals from the body's cells, and prevent or reduce the damage caused by oxidation. No special diet or 'miracle food' can cure arthritis, but some conditions may be helped by avoiding or including certain foods. It is important to identify any foods or food chemicals that may trigger your asthma, but this must be done under strict medical supervision. Content on this website is provided for information purposes only.
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The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. Skip to main content. Healthy eating. Home Healthy eating. Actions for this page Listen Print. Summary Read the full fact sheet. On this page. Health benefits of herbs Cooking with herbs Good herb and food combinations Tips for cooking with herbs Herb combinations Be adventurous with herbs Where to get help. B, pp. What is herbal medicine?
Active ingredients and herbal medicine Medicinal uses for specific herbs Do not self-diagnose ailments Special considerations for herbal medicine Where to get help. Active ingredients and herbal medicine Herbal medicines contain active ingredients. Medicinal uses for specific herbs Herbal medicine aims to return the body to a state of natural balance so that it can heal itself. Some herbs that are commonly used in herbal medicine, and their traditional uses, include: Echinacea — to stimulate the immune system and aid the body in fighting infection.
Used to treat ailments such as boils , fever and herpes. Dong quai dang gui — used for gynaecological complaints such as premenstrual tension , menopause symptoms and period pain. Some studies indicate that dong quai can lower blood pressure. Garlic — used to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering levels of blood fats and cholesterol a type of blood fat.
The antibiotic and antiviral properties of garlic mean that it is also used to fight colds , sinusitis and other respiratory infections. Ginger — many studies have shown ginger to be useful in treating nausea, including motion sickness and morning sickness.
Ginkgo biloba — commonly used to treat poor blood circulation and tinnitus ringing in the ears. Ginseng — generally used to treat fatigue , for example during recovery from illness. It is also used to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, however overuse of ginseng has been associated with raised blood pressure. It is also used for anxiety and insomnia.
Do not self-diagnose ailments It is very important that people do not self-diagnose any health conditions. Special considerations for herbal medicine Herbal medicines can be mistakenly thought to be completely safe because they are 'natural' products.
Herbal medicines may produce negative effects that can range from mild to severe, including: allergic reactions and rashes asthma headaches nausea vomiting diarrhoea. Always tell your herbal medicine practitioner: which over-the-counter, herbal medicines, complementary medicines and prescription medications you are taking any allergic reactions you have experienced if you are pregnant , planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Be aware herbal medicine can interact with other medications Herbal medications and supplements may interact in harmful ways with over-the-counter or prescription medicines you are taking. Purchase herbal medicine products from a reputable supplier Not all herbal medicines that are sold are safe. If you are considering taking herbal medicine, it is recommended that you: Never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your doctor.
Always tell your doctor if you are planning to start a course of herbal medicine for your condition. Always purchase products from a reputable source.
Be cautious about buying herbal medicines or supplements manufactured overseas. Take all herbal medicines strictly as prescribed and consult your health practitioner immediately if you experience any side effects. An overview of the regulation of complementary medicines in Australia , , Therapeutic Goods Administration, Department of Health, Australian Government.
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