In recent years, there has been a surge in the use of natural remedies and alternative medicine practices. From health and fitness magazines to television talk shows, people are constantly bombarded with information about these treatments. Most promise better health, more energy, effortless weight loss, and cures for diseases. Products made from plants and used for internal use are called herbal supplements.
The past decade has seen an increase in public acceptance and interest in natural therapies, both in developing and developed countries. Herbal remedies are now available not only in pharmacies but also in food stores and supermarkets. It is important that healthcare professionals bear responsibility for the oversight of drug safety, as well as that all suppliers of herbal medicines are adequately trained to play a role in ensuring the safety of these products. Studies have shown that the use of plant-based drugs accounts for approximately 40% of all health services provided in China. In Australia, Canada, the US, Belgium and France, the percentage of the population that has used herbal remedies at least once is estimated at 48%, 70%, 42%, 38% and 75%, respectively.
Regulatory authorities must take appropriate measures to protect public health by ensuring that all herbal medicines are safe and of adequate quality. Unfortunately, there have been cases of poisoning associated with the use of herbal medicines in many parts of the world. This is due to the misconception that natural products are non-toxic and have no adverse effects. To promote their safe use and protect public health, it is important to thoroughly evaluate the toxicity of these products and actively monitor their use. In the United States, natural products are regulated by the Dietary Supplements Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. In the United Kingdom, a “simplified registration system” was introduced for traditional herbal medicines. The use of natural remedies and alternative medicine practices is on the rise worldwide. People are increasingly turning to these treatments for better health, more energy, effortless weight loss, and cures for diseases.
Herbal supplements are widely available in pharmacies, food stores, and supermarkets. Studies have shown that plant-based drugs account for 40% of all health services provided in China. In other countries such as Australia, Canada, the US, Belgium and France, an estimated 48%, 70%, 42%, 38% and 75% of the population have used herbal remedies at least once. Regulatory authorities must take appropriate measures to protect public health by ensuring that all herbal medicines are safe and of adequate quality.
It is also important to evaluate the toxicity of these products and actively monitor their use to prevent cases of poisoning associated with their use. In the United States, natural products are regulated by DSHEA while a “simplified registration system” was introduced for traditional herbal medicines in the United Kingdom. It is essential to be aware of natural remedies and alternative medicine practices when considering healthcare options. Healthcare professionals should be responsible for drug safety oversight while suppliers should be adequately trained to ensure product safety. Regulatory authorities should also take steps to ensure that all herbal medicines are safe and effective.
