Drugs classified as herbal are those whose active components are derived from plant materials like leaves, roots, or flowers. However, just because something is "natural,"  it is common among people to use herbs in various forms, whether green, dry, or tea, to treat multiple diseases and symptoms, such as mint and chamomile. With the passage of time and experience, people have become associated with herbs and diseases that treat them. The most common examples are when the patient feels pain in his stomach, and the first thing on his mind is to take sage tea to relieve colic symptoms. This does not imply you may consume it without risk.

It should be noted that some pharmaceutical drugs rely on materials taken from plants or manufactured forms of these materials, which humans make similarly to these natural materials.

Some herbs may contain powerful active substances that may be useful in some instances. Since these substances are used in medicine, their consumption must be in the correct quantities, just like medicine. For example, digoxin, also known as digitalis, is derived from a plant called foxglove, which is used to treat heart diseases.

A compound called salicylic acid is used to make aspirin, a compound that is extracted from a plant called Meadowsweet.

Some herbs can be obtained in the form of herbal supplements.

These supplements are available in various forms, such as swallowing them or using creams and ointments, and can be obtained without a prescription to relieve specific symptoms or maintain health.

These supplements may contain whole herbs or parts of them.

Possible problems with herbal medicines

If you are taking or plan to take any herbal medications, be

 aware of the following:

They may cause problems if you are taking other medicines.

They can make other drugs less effective or cause unexpected side effects from other medicines.           

You may experience a bad reaction or side effects after taking herbal medicine.                     

Not all herbal medicines are regulated.             

Remedies explicitly designed for individuals do not need a license, and those made outside the USA may not be subject to regulation.                           

Evidence for the effectiveness of herbal medicines in general is minimal. Although some people find them useful, in many cases, their use tends to be based on traditional usage rather than scientific research.                 

Certain groups of people should be especially wary of taking herbal medicines.

Who should avoid herbal medicines?

Taking herbal medicine may not be suitable for people taking other drugs, including hormonal contraceptives,  such as the combined pill.

 People with severe health conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, will undergo surgery. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and elderly Children - As with all medicines, herbal medicines should be kept out of the sight and reach of children. If you fall into one of these groups, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice before trying herbal medicines.

 Do herbs treat all diseases?

It is impossible to rely on herbs to treat all diseases with different causes, and it is impossible to be sure that an herbal supplement treats a specific disease because it is not subject to clinical trials or the same standards as traditional medicines.

However, some herbs can be used to relieve the symptoms of certain diseases.

 Here are some examples of this:

1. Treatment for cough and sore throat: Coughs and sore throats are common problems that usually resolve themselves, but some herbal home remedies can help relieve pain and soothe the throat. These herbs include licorice.

 Plant of the red elm (slippery elm). Echinacea plant, eye, or stork (Pelargonium).

2. Ginger is very popular for treating digestive disorders. It can relieve nausea, improve symptoms of stomach disorders, and prevent motion sickness. 

 3. Treatment of sleep problems and insomnia Some herbs provide comfort, and some herbs can aid sleep, such as chamomile, which can be soaked and drunk in the evening to sleep. Lavender: Also known as lavender, inhaling the essential oil extracted from this herb may help you feel relaxed and calm, and inhaling this oil is safe for adults and children.

 4. Treatment of some skin problems: Some herbs can be used topically to relieve skin irritation and issues, and we  mention the following:

 Arnica: Also known as Arnica Montana, this plant's cream can relieve muscle pain and bruises.

Tea tree: The oil extracted from this plant has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties, so it can reduce acne or athlete's foot by being placed directly on the injury site.

Calendula: Also known as calendula, its use may help relieve eczema and irritation caused by diapers.

 Instructions before resorting to herbal medicine:

Before resorting to herbal medicine, the doctor or pharmacist should be asked. Herbal supplements may be inappropriate in certain disease states and may affect and interact with some types of drugs. Therefore, the following instructions must be followed before starting to consume herbs.

· Find out as much information as possible about the herbal supplement by asking your doctor or other trusted sources.

· Follow the directions on the herbal supplement carefully, and never take more than the recommended dose.

· Stop taking the herbal supplement or stop using it if side effects occur, such as nausea, headache, dizziness, or other discomfort.

· Pay attention to allergic reactions, as some herbs are unsuitable for some people. Choose reputable brands when choosing products.

In the following cases, inform the doctor before taking herbal supplements or natural herbs: children or adults over 65.

If you take medications simultaneously as the herbal supplement, consult your doctor. 

· In cases of pregnancy, it may be advised to avoid some types of herbs, as well as during breastfeeding periods, before undergoing surgeries.

How safe is the use of herbs to treat diseases? Some may think that the fact that herbs are natural means they are safe to use, but this is not necessarily true. Herbal treatment is not considered safer than medicine, as some people think, as they contain substances that can interact with other drugs or cause side effects.

Alternatively, it may cause poisoning if taken in higher doses than usual, not to mention the presence of naturally poisonous plants.

How safe is the use of herbs to treat diseases?

The fact that herbs are natural may lead some people to believe they are safe to take, but this is not always true.

Moreover, contrary to popular belief, herbs include ingredients that may interact negatively with other medications or have undesirable side effects.

In addition to the presence of naturally dangerous plants, it might also be poisonous if ingested in more significant concentrations than typical. St. John's Wort, for example, can help people suffering from mild to severe depression. However, it can also cause anxiety and upset stomach and interact with other antidepressants and birth control pills.