Many consumers believe that all that is natural is safe. In fact, many of the medicines in use today, such as aspirin, were discovered in nature and recreated in synthetic form. Herbs carry side effects and risks, many of which are as serious as those of other medicines. It is thus crucial to use a herb directory responsibly, with the support of a medical doctor.

Databases that are responsibly built will offer more than mere listings. Some list foods and their naturally occurring nutrients, along with their health benefits. Others focus on nutritional supplements. Still others offer information about herbal ingredients. Many herbs have more than one name, so a responsible listing will offer tonics under all the terms that describe them. This is a particularly important facet to seek out for those with chronic conditions, since some herbs are contraindicated under certain circumstances. Mistakes are easy to make when one doesn't know all the terms for the tonics one must avoid.

A responsible directory that gives data about the safety and efficacy of every tonic are invaluable. Ingredients such as ephedra have received FDA black box warnings. The safety information of these kinds of tonics needs to be assessed before deciding on a herbal solution. This is particularly important for those with chronic conditions and who are taking medications daily.

When adding herbal preparations to a treatment plan, it is important to restrict oneself to reputable brands. This is because naturopathic medicines are not subject to the same restrictions and standards as medical substances are. Brands that cannot be trusted may add herbs without listing them, or use irregular quantities of herbs in their products.

Herbs sometimes open up the potential for abuse and should be avoided by those with addiction problems. This is particularly true of ma huang, which is otherwise known as ephedra. It is a stimulant that is highly addictive. Less addictive but equally stimulating herbs such as ginseng should not be taken during pregnancy or by those with cardiac or epileptic disorders.

Before choosing a herbal treatment program, patients should get to know the FDA's role in regulating natural remedies. While they do offer a degree of monitoring, this body does not approve them based on trials. They do, however, ensure responsible manufacturing processes free of contaminants. All herbs released onto the open market are subject to FDA scrutiny, and safety concerns are announced on their website. This makes it safer to use brands that are manufactured in countries that offer this degree of regulation.

One of the most reliable ways to assess a supplement is by asking one's doctor or pharmacist. Those who keep themselves up to date with such information will be able to offer medical guidance that is evidence based. It remains important to remain within guidelines by not taking higher dosages or extending treatment periods.

Not all people can safely take herbs. Those who are breast feeding or pregnant are safer avoiding them altogether. Patients with epilepsy or cardiac health problems need to avoid certain ingredients, and patients over 65 or under 18 years of age should not take herb directory supplements.