Herb Training: Helpful Herbal Safety Tips

Herb Basics

September/October 2003
By Michael Castleman 
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• Before you take an herb, read up on it. Don’t just follow the latest fads or take your friend or neighbor’s word for it. Do some research to make sure the herb’s right for you.

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• Don’t take an herb’s identity for granted. Look for products that identify ingredients by Latin names — and know what you’re looking for.

• Don’t exceed the recommended dosage. Follow the product’s label directions or your practitioner’s recommendations closely.

• Respect your individuality. Watch for any allergic reactions or adverse effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, headache or a rash. If you notice any such symptoms, discontinue the herb.

• Be wary of herb-drug interactions. If you’re taking prescription drugs, check with your health-care provider before taking herbs.

• If you’re older than 65, start with a low dose. As people grow older, they become more sensitive to drug effects, so a low dose might suffice. You can always increase your dose later.

Source: Castleman, Michael. The New Healing Herbs. Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale, 2001.

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