Herbs vs. Medicine – How They Differ
There is no doubt that controversy exists between traditional medicine and holistic medicine. Herbs vs. medicine is a topic of much controversy. The traditional side says herbs aren’t tested and are unsafe. The pharmaceutical side says that they go through standardized testing and approval processes. As you can see, there are differing viewpoints about herbal and pharmaceutical medicine. Both can have benefits, risks, side effects, and potential interactions. Regardless of your viewpoint, no one should be forced to take a pharmaceutical or an herb. Everyone should be able to try and choose which works best for them. Regardless of which way you are leaning, educating yourself on the benefits and risks of herbs vs. medicine should be explored. This is a controversial topic, and this month’s newsletter explores this topic.
The Benefits of Using Herbal Medicine First
For thousands of years, human beings relied primarily on herbs for healing. However, with the advent of modern pharmaceutical medicine, many people felt that there was no longer a need for herbal medicine. Science had triumphed over nature to create superior remedies. However, today there has been a renewed interest in herbal medicine. This interest and rapid growth in the herbal industry in recent years demonstrate this, and this industry continues to expand.
Pharmaceutical Problems
Modern drugs can have many side effects, which I feel is fueling the growth of herbal medicine. The commercials promoting them can verify this with their side effects. However, the problem is far worse than most people realize, because illness caused by medical treatments (iatrogenic disease) is a leading cause of death in the United States.
Pharmaceutical medications at times can be extremely important and even lifesaving, but more common than herbs, they can also have side effects and interactions. Some side effects become apparent only after a medication is used by larger numbers of people over longer periods of time, roughly 3 to 5 years. This is one reason why it is important to understand the benefits and risks of any medication you take and discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Herbal Safety, Advantages, Beneficial Actions
I began my herbal education back in 1996 when the traditional treatments were not helping me with a sinus/ear issue. I used specific herbal combinations to help me with this issue, and the herbs were successful. This experience changed my viewpoint, and I began to educate myself on herbal medicine. Now I look at herbs and essential oils first for assistance with various health concerns.
I also began focusing on building health instead of waiting till I got sick to do something about it, which I share in my Healthy Habits Challenge. For more information on herbs vs. medicines, visit Steven’s article on Herbal Energetics. It will shed more light on herbal safety, the advantages of taking herbs, and their unique beneficial actions.
It’s important to remember that just because it says “Natural,” it doesn’t automatically mean that it comes without risk. Herbs contain active compounds, can interact with medications, and may not be appropriate for everyone based on their current health status. That’s why I believe learning how to use herbs appropriately is just as important as learning about their benefits.
This article was originally published as part of the Sunshine Sharing newsletter series.
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