What is herbal medicine?
Many types of plants contain natural substances that become active ingredients once they’re inside your body. To show you exactly how potent plants can be, consider this: Some prescription medications, such as digoxin for heart failure, originally came from plants.
When extracted from the plant’s leaves, roots, seeds, or bark, the active ingredients become herbal medications that effectively treat illnesses and prevent disease.
By carefully choosing the herbal medication, Dr. Baginski can treat health problems while maintaining a healthy balance in your body.
What form will my herbal medication take?
Herbal medications are available in several forms:
Tea
Herbal teas are made by placing parts of the plant into boiling water. The active ingredient is pulled into the water, so you can drink your medication.
Powdered herbs
Your herbal medication may come in a powder form that you mix with water.
Chinese patent formulas
Many traditional herbal medications are pre-made into pills or tablets, just like conventional medications.
Syrup
If you have a cough or sore throat, your herbal medicine may be mixed into a thick liquid that helps soothe your symptoms.
Topical
If you have a skin rash or wound, herbal extracts are mixed with oils or ointments, or incorporated into a dressing so you can apply them to your skin.
What health conditions do herbal medications treat?
With an abundance of plants in the world that produce many different active ingredients, herbal medications are available to treat a vast range of health problems.
While used frequently for everyday problems like colds, fatigue, headaches, and allergies, herbal medications are also effective for conditions such as:
- Eczema
- Rosacea
- Asthma
- Constipation
- Urinary tract infections
- Menstrual cramps
- Pelvic pain
- Depression and anxiety
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Herbal medications also commonly treat acute and chronic pain caused by many different injuries and diseases.
Is it safe to mix herbal medications with other treatments?
The active ingredients in herbal medications can interact with other therapies you may take, including prescription medications and over-the-counter medicines and supplements.
Dr. Baginski thoroughly reviews all the substances you take and carefully evaluates their different active ingredients to be sure you’re not at risk for unsafe interactions.
To learn more about your herbal medication options, call the office of Leon Baginski, MD FACOG, or schedule an appointment online.
