Continuing in our discussion of Dr. Peter Gott's mini-series
on herbal remedies, let me preface by saying that I have the highest respect
for this good doctor and all reputable medical professionals. There are times
when we must seek them out for some of our health problems. When those times
come, I am very thankful they are there to assist us. There are also times
when we could prevent the need for a visit to the doctor by using herbs at
home.
NOT REGULATED BY THE F.D.A.
Dr. Gott points out that "echinacea compounds are not regulated
by the Food and Drug Administration." This is true and it is actually a good
thing. Isolated constituents (compounds) may not produce the full benefits
of the whole herb form. I have no problem with this. I prefer my foods in
their whole form, too.
Like foods, herbs may vary in potency depending on the way
they were grown or where they were grown. Thus, I agree with Gott when he
says we should "purchase echinacea only from reputable sources that list
on the label the plant parts used, the name and address of the manufacturer,
the batch and lot number, and the dates of manufacture and expiration." This
is good advice that holds true for any herbal preparation, especially those
intended for ingestion.
BACKYARD REGULATION?
Echinacea grows in many backyards as do many other herbs.
When we harvest herbs from our own yard for our own use, there is no FDA
regulation involved. Does that mean we are not getting the proper benefits
from our harvest? Dr. Gott himself gives directions for St. John's wort tea.
We cannot be assured of getting the exact recommended dosage drinking this
tea, but is there any harm in that? Absolutely not!
St. John's wort (Hypericum) has a number of species with
varying quantities of hypericin (a key constituent). The most common of these
is Hypericum perforatum, this being the species containing the highest quantity
of hypericin. Less familiar species are H. pyramiditum and H. ellipticum
which contain a lesser quantity. Any of these species may be grown or wildcrafted
for use in the home. Making a tea from any of these species will be beneficial,
but we will not be able to determine the exact quantity of hypericin in our
tea unless we test it in a lab.
I suppose the FDA could do that, but I don't really want
them in my backyard or in my kitchen. Do you? I think we can continue to
get along just fine without the long arm of government extended into our
homes.
IS THAT SAFE?
Yes, it is safe to grow your own herbs and consume them
at home. People have been doing so for thousands of years without the FDA's
stamp of approval. It is also safe to purchase herbs from reputable sources
and consume them at home. The only caution that should concern us is to have
some knowledge about the herbs we choose to use.
The same could be said about the foods we consume. For years
we were eating produce purchased from reputable sources (grocery stores)
that was laden with highly toxic pesticides. Ooops! I should say, we are
still eating produce purchased from reputable sources (grocery stores) that
is laden with highly toxic pesticides ... unless it is certified organically
grown.
LET'S GET REAL HERE!
The FDA has good intentions. They want us to be able to
shop in a safe market. We are grateful for that, but even the FDA falls short
in certain areas. Reputable medical doctors also have good intentions. They
want us to have safe remedies for our ailments. Again, we are grateful. But,
weighing the harmful side effects of some pharmaceutical remedies compared
to herbal remedies, the scale tips drastically. Even with regulations and
precautions, pharmaceuticals pose a much greater concern than herbs.
Could it be that the recent hullabaloo about herbal remedies
has something to do with money? Is the medical and pharmaceutical industry
feeling the effects of the rise in herbal interests in the place where it
hurts the most?
If we continue to use herbs and other home remedies that
keep us well, we will see our doctors less often. If we see our doctors less
often, we will purchase fewer prescription drugs. If we purchase fewer
prescription drugs and pay fewer doctor bills, someone's pocket begins to
feel the pain. I chuckle every time I hear it said that the herbal industry
is getting rich off of poor unsuspecting consumers. Let's get real here!
REALISTIC CAUTIONS
I realize that the following may be repetitious for those
of you who have been reading our publications all along, but for the sake
of continuity, here is a list of realistic guidelines for using herbs:
1) Do your research before using an herb. If you are cautioned
about any possible harm or conflict, take heed and find a different herb
that can safely be used for your purpose.
2) Do not take more than two internal remedies at any one
time or more than one internal and one external remedy for the same complaint,
unless otherwise instructed (by a reputable source).
3) Do not exceed the recommended dose unless under the
supervision of a professional. More is not always better. Herbs sometimes
take a little longer than drugs to produce results.
4) Dosages given are for adults unless otherwise specified.
Most adult dosages can be safely reduced for children using the following
chart:
6-12 months -- 1/10 adult dose
1-6 years -- 1/3 adult dose
7-12 years -- 1/2 adult dose
5) Do not give internal herbal remedies (or medicine) to
infants under 6 months without professional advice.
6) Do not take herbal remedies (or medicine) during the
first three months of pregnancy without professional advice.
7) Do reduce the adult dose to 3/4 for people over 70
years.
8) Do not take herbal remedies with prescription drugs without
consulting a professional. Do not discontinue prescription drugs without
professional advice.
9) Do take herbal remedies until symptoms disappear. If
no improvement is seen within 2-3 weeks, or if the condition worsens, or
when in doubt, consult a professional.
10) Do pat yourself on the back :-) You have chosen an excellent
approach to better health.
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