Hello everyone, our topic for today is all about Herbal Supplements. Some of us specially those people far from cities are using herbal for curing illnesses. They come in capsules, tablets, liquids and powders. Their names are often strange and difficult to pronounce. They promise to heal or enhance your health-naturally.

People spend millions a year on herbal remedies sold in health food stores. Yet theres scanty proof that the supplements can actually help you.

Shred of Truth Isn't Proof

The popularity if herbs often stems from testimonials or exaggerated bits of scientific evidence. Echinacea, a member of the daisy family is touted as a remedy for cold or flu. It contains substances capable of strengthening the immune system to fight infection. Studies show gingko biloba extract can stimulate blood flow in the brains of older adults. In some countries, the herb is sold as a prescription drug. But its complete chemical makeup hasn't been analyzed and it hasn't been approved as a drug.

Its likely some herbs improve certain conditions. Many of todays pharmaceuticals originated from plants. Digitals, used to treat congestive heart failure, initially came from the leaves of the foxglove plant. Taxol, a drug originally from the yew tree is a promising medication for ovarian and breast cancer.

Many herbs are sold in a drug-like formulas and potencies without having been evaluated for safety and effectiveness, which is required by the drug-approval process.

Known Hazards

Lack of regulation doesn't mean all herbs are dangerous. Yet taking them risky. Here are several supplements to avoid because they can have serious side effects:

• Comfrey, borage and coltsfoot➡️ toxic chemicals called pyrrolizidine alkaloids contained in these herbs may cause liver disease.

• Chaparral➡️ five cases of liver disease have been linked to the use of this medicinal herb.

• Ma Huang➡️ a herb use as tea for a weight loss.

• Germanium➡️ this substance has no properties of a food or nutrient, yet its claimed to promote overall heath. Proponents also claim germanium naturalizes heavy metal toxicity. Long term use of this supplements may lead to kidney damage and death.

• Yohimbe➡️ used to enhance sexual performance, its generally lacks practical use due to its serious side effects, including tremors, anxiety, highblood pressure and rapid heart rate.

When you take an herbal supplements, you do so at your own risk. At a minimum, use these precautions.

• Don't use herbal remedies for serious illness like heart disease, cancer or arthritis.

• Tell your doctor about all supplements you take, to avoid interactions with other medications.

• Don't give herbs or other dietary supplement to children.

Thank you for reading my post and have a good day.