Herbal Medicines

What to look for when buying a herbal medicine

Source: NHS

In this topic (7)

If you want to try a herbal medicine,look out for a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) marking on the product packaging.

This means themedicine complies with quality standards relating to safety and manufacturing, and it provides information about how and when to use it.

However, you should be aware that:

  • THR products are intended for conditions that can be self-medicated and that don't require medical supervision, such as coughs , colds or general aches and pains
  • using THR products for more serious conditions could be harmful, especially if you delay seeking medical advice
  • claims made for THR products are based on traditional usage and not on evidence of the product's effectiveness
  • a THR mark doesn't mean the product is completely safe for everyone to take

You can find THR-registered products in your local health shop, pharmacy or supermarket.

Articles for Herbal Medicines

Herbal medicines and surgery

It's important to tell your doctor if you take any herbal medicines before undergoing surgery. This is because: some herbal medicinesmight interfere with anaesthesia and other medicines used befor

Introduction

Read about herbal medicines, including what the possible risks are, who shouldn't use them and what to look for when buying them.

Potential issues with herbal medicines

If you're taking or plan to take any herbal medicines, be aware of the following: They may cause problems if you're taking other medicines. They could result in reduced or enhanced effects of the

Reporting side effects

You can report any side effect or adverse reaction to a herbal medicine using the Yellow Card Scheme run by the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). This can help theMHRA ide

Risks of buying herbal medicines online or by mail order

The risks of obtaining fake, substandard, unlicensed or contaminated medicines are increased by buying medicines online or by mail order. Unlicensed herbal medicines manufactured outside the UK may n

What to look for when buying a herbal medicine

If you want to try a herbal medicine,look out for a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) marking on the product packaging. This means themedicine complies with quality standards relating to safety a

Who should avoid herbal medicines?

Taking a herbal medicine may not be suitable for: peopletaking other medicines people with serious health conditions, such asliver or Chronic kidney disease people due to have surgery (see below)