For centuries, people use herbal essences as an aid to treat a variety of ailments.
Lavender soothes mild symptoms of anxiety. Turmeric boasts powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is commonly incorporated into natural treatments for pain and inflammation, such as osteoarthritis and PMS.
As for garlic, the Greek physician Hippocrates frequently prescribed it to treat a number of conditions. Modern science has gone on to confirm many of its beneficial effects, ranging from reducing symptoms of high blood pressure to high cholesterol.
From old-fashioned remedies passed down generations to today’s modern treatment of aromatherapy, the efficacy of plant-based medicine has attracted a lot of attention. People around the world are increasing its usage to aid numerous health concerns.
In this article, we look at the benefits of herbal essences – and how to safely use them in daily life.
Safety Precautions for Consumers when Using Herbal Essences
Whether it’s aromatherapy treatments with essential oils or incorporating herbal tinctures into your diet, it’s important to remember that natural doesn’t always mean safe.
It’s important to educate yourself on the properties, precautions, and safety practices that come with herbal treatments.
Here are some important measures to take in order to use herbal essences and supplements as safely as possible.
- Speak to your doctor if you are pregnant, have existing conditions or allergies, or are planning to use herbal essences to treat any medical or psychological conditions.
- During a consultation, specify whatever over-the-counter, prescription, or herbal supplements you are currently taking to avoid any harmful drug interactions.
- Research the company whose products you are using. Only purchase products from a reputable supplier or pharmacist.
- If you notice any adverse reactions, stop what you are taking immediately and consult your doctor.
- Do not self-diagnose any health conditions. Consult a medical practitioner and ensure that any herbal supplements you take are done under the supervision of a professional.
- For topical application, perform a patch test on a small area on your skin to see how it will react.
- Some essential oils require to be diluted as the direct application may cause an adverse skin reaction. Be sure to read the instructions prior to use.
- Read up as much as you can on a product: its side effects, its interaction with other foods, medication, etc.
- Pay attention to dosage and do not use more than the recommended amount. This applies to products meant for consumption, such as supplements. Consult a health professional if you intend on altering your current dosage.
What are the Benefits of Herbal Essences?
Research is still ongoing when it comes to the efficacy of herbal medicine and natural remedies – though there is already plenty of evidence shown for herbal treatments.
Here is why they’re so widely popular in today’s society!
They are Hugely Versatile
Anyone can integrate herbs in a variety of ways.
When extracted from plants and distilled, they take on the form of essential oils. Dried herbs can be used as potpourri, simmered in a pot to release their natural fragrance, or steeped in hot water to make tea.
Ground up into a paste and tightly wrapped in a warm cloth, herbs can be made into a poultice. This can be applied to the skin to treat a variety of ailments such as insect bites, muscle aches, and minor burns.
Herbal extractions also work wonderfully in beauty and body care. The antibacterial and antifungal properties of neem are often used to combat acne in traditional Ayurvedic skincare, whilst shikakai is well-known for helping to reduce hair loss. As for peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus? The rich perfume of these plants is often used in herbal essence shampoos and soaps.
Herbs also make an appearance in various cuisines. In Eastern cuisine, ginger and ginseng are lauded for their distinct character and healing properties, while the trio of rosemary, sage and thyme will make any dish sing.
Herbal Products are Often Inexpensive
Another notable advantage of herbal products is their cost-effectiveness. Anyone can easily purchase dried or fresh herbs at the supermarket or from reputable suppliers online – such as Herbee!
You could even go ahead and propagate some of your fresh herbs to create your own garden. Over time, you’re going to have a bountiful, year-round supply of your favourite aromatics.
A Complementary Treatment
Let us first make it clear that all forms of treatment have side effects. The risk of drug interactions and allergic reactions is 100% possible. Consulting with a doctor is recommended, especially if you plan on incorporating herbal essences and products into your lifestyle.
However, various forms of herbal and botanical-based treatments have shown ample evidence of being well received. A 2018 study on the topic suggests a few that are worth recommending. Some of the botanicals mentioned in the study have beneficial effects in weight management, dementia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease; peppermint proving to be safe and effective in alleviating IBS symptoms, treating musculoskeletal pains, headaches, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
In fact, studies have reported few negative side effects. However, it is important to pay attention to any signs of allergic reactions such as watery or itchy eyes, sneezing and rashes.
Herbal Products are Accessible
Supplements are usually readily available as over-the-counter medication (without the need for a prescription), while fresh and dried herbs and extracts can be easily found online, in supermarkets, and in grocery stores.
With the herbal products market in Malaysia set to grow at an impressive 15% per annum, the expansion of variety will leave consumers spoilt for choice. This means more convenience, as marketplaces allow easy price comparison and due diligence on effectiveness and safety profiles.
Increase in Government Regulation
Safety certification will be instrumental in elevating traditional herbal medicine to a more equal footing with mainstream modern medicine.
The establishment of regulatory bodies such as the Traditional Complementary Medicine Division of the Ministry of Health provides a clear legal framework for the development, dissemination, and use of herbal products in a safe and impactful way.
Shop Safe Herbal Products Online
All of the products you see on Herbee go through a strict screening process to ensure they come from credible and verified sources.
We work closely with our wholesale partners to ensure that you can find and safely access the latest herbal products and more at the best prices in Malaysia!
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