The Practical Side of Wellness

It is essential to personally research any herb before using it, if only to validify information that you already have. I say this a lot, but it is because there is so much misinformation on the Internet, and even in books and magazines. In the literary world, if a statement can be found easily in six sources, it is considered to be common knowledge. If a statement about an herb's medicinal use can be found intact in six reputable sources, it is probably safe to regard that statement as true. However, it doesn't hurt to keep up with new studies, which often refute last week's common knowledge.

While taking an herbal supplement, one must be wary of its potential interactions with other drugs. During surgery, according to mayoclinic.com, feverfew may cause bleeding, and valerian may decrease the effectiveness of anesthesia. St. John's wort cancels the effects of birth control pills, and echinacea increases the risk of rejection after transplant surgery.

We must not forget that herbal treatments are a part of our medical plan. Any herb that is being taken should be communicated to our regular physician, especially if he or she is starting an additional treatment. If we do not connect the herbal side of our wellness plans with the modern medical side, we do a disservice to ourselves and endanger, rather than strengthen, our health.