The natural element in herbal extracts does not guarantee their safety. This is shocking information to people who believe in the sanctity of herbal extracts. Herb directory offers all the information you require about the dietary and nutritional safety of any plant extract that is ingested. You need the guidance of a doctor to select the right foods for your health needs and conditions.

Directories contain different lists and categories of foods and their benefits to the body. Others have specialized in the beneficial herbal ingredient and the best form of taking these plants. They offer all the names available including the scientific and common names for these extracts. The language used is easy to understand for the different users. Availability of this information in different languages caters for the diverse needs of concerned consumers.

Caution paragraphs are included for every extract to avoid poisoning. Poisoning comes from making wrong choices or taking inappropriate combination. There are classes of different herbs and how they can be used to ensure good health. Their dosages are included as well as alternatives in each case. Others offer detailed information on the side effects of long term use or discontinuation. The user is able to make an informed choice.

You will enjoy incredible value when you find database with details about the safety of all ingredients found in the herbal extracts. Some of the ingredients like ephedra have a caution attached to their use by FDA. The user should evaluate how a plant with such ingredient will affect his health or affect the effectiveness of his medication. A medical doctor will help you make an accurate decision.

The procedures of preparing the herbal extracts differ from one brand to the other. This means that the choice of a brand should be preceded by thorough background check to establish the extent of testing done and if necessary certification by medical and health experts has been obtained. While some brands are strict with testing, others have relaxed and might cause nasty reactions with the body. Use products only from a reputable brand.

Different herbs affect or react with the body in unique ways. It pays to understand how each ingredient is absorbed and how it reacts. Some are stimulants and therefore addictive. Regulating bodies will issue such warnings and prohibit their use by alcoholics or recovering addicts. This information is found alongside the plant and should be considered seriously. All ingredients must be clear to you before settling for any medicine or extract.

The absence of FDA comments or restriction by other health and medical bodies does not mean that they approve the herbs. The regulations governing naturopathic remedies are restrictive with the monitors only supposed to ensure that they do not contain contaminants or pesticides. This calls for extra caution in areas where the comment of reliable regulators is absent.

A herb directory is very helpful to breast feeding mothers and pregnant women. People under the age of 18 or over 65 years should observe the directions in these directories seriously. Persons under medication or about to undergo surgery are also advised to be very careful with supplements of all nature. Consult your pharmacist and doctor before taking any supplement.