HERBAL medicine has been practised for thousands of years. It offers hope for conditions as varied as the common cold, depression and Alzheimer’s disease. As more and more research and clinical studies become available, increasing numbers of health care professionals are beginning to recommend herbal treatments for their patients. Furthermore, there is a growing trend for the public to self-medicate using herbal supplements under the impression that herbal preparations are safe and devoid of serious side effects.
To meet the demand, a myriad of herbal preparations is available in the market. But, are all herbal supplements really safe and effective?