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Herbal Remedies
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Background
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September 2001
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| Western medicine has long frowned upon some of
the herbal remedies and practices of the Eastern world and
from old remedies practiced in bygone eras here in North
America. But many of these natural botanical remedies have
become very popular in the last few years here in Canada
and western science has begun to legitimize their use
through clinical trials. Several reputable pharmaceutical
companies have even started producing their own over the
counter herbal remedies.
A growing number of Canadians are using
herbal products for preventative and therapeutic purposes.
But do people really know if these products really do what
they claim? Do people really know what is in the bottle
they have just bought? Are the manufacturers strictly
regulated to provide a safe, effective product? Are there
any possible side-effects associated with herbal remedies?
Are manufacturers required to list possible side-effects
or safety concerns? Could there be any problems with
taking herbal remedies along with prescribed medications?
Keep in mind;
- Why would manufacturers spend a great
deal of money on lengthy clinical trials which may not
support their product if they are not required to do
so?
- Herbs cannot be patented like
pharmaceuticals. Therefore, companies are not going to
do a great deal of research on finding out the active
ingredients in the herb if they cannot patent the
product to protect their investment.
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