Precautions in Using Herbal Supplements for Age-Related Health Conditions

Sarah Parker
Authored by Sarah Parker
Posted: Wednesday, July 31, 2019 - 12:34

Caring for the elderly is expensive. If you find yourself in the position where you have to provide for the needs of an ageing relative, the cost can add up eventually. As a result, it is normal for many people who are in the same predicament to look for alternatives, especially medication. In this day and age, you will find information about herbal and natural supplements abounding on the internet. Will these work as well as synthetic medicine? Although some claim that herbal medicine works just as well, it is essential to understand the pros and cons of substituting synthetic medication with herbal remedies in treating age-related health problems.

Natural medication does not have harmful chemicals

There is always a certain stigma that comes with medicine that came out of a laboratory. Many people feel uncomfortable with the idea that they are putting harmful chemicals in their bodies. But medical professionals advise that there is not much difference between synthetic medicine and natural medicine. Many plant compounds with proven health benefits are used to produce pharmaceuticals.

With age-related health problems such as inflammation, memory loss, and lack of energy, there are natural remedies used as a substitute for modern synthetic medication. For example, regular consumption of a turmeric drink in moderate amounts may help aid in reducing the symptoms of inflammation such as arthritis. Plants like ginseng and Gingko Biloba are brewed and consumed in tea form to help boost energy and enhance mental acuity.

Natural medication lacks the necessary FDA approval

The safety and effectiveness of herbal medicines are not guaranteed. Even if the manufacturer claims that the product is made from “all-natural” ingredients, some plant compounds may cause allergies and side-effects. Unfortunately, herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA. Nevertheless, manufacturers are still required to follow specific guidelines to ensure that products meet a certain level of quality.

Before using any herbal medication to reduce the symptoms of age-related health conditions, take the necessary precaution to research the side-effects of the product. If the patient is on regular medication, consult their physician first before making any substitution to existing medication.

Herbal medication still consists of potent compounds

Herbal medicines and natural supplements may seem less intimidating, but the ingredients used to manufacture them still contain powerful compounds. There are times when using herbal supplements, together with synthetic medication, may result in counteracting the efficacy of pharmaceuticals.

Give the attending physician a complete list of ongoing medication, including all-natural supplements used. Remember that even these natural compounds may cause liver damage and other adverse side-effects when consumed incorrectly. For ageing individuals, it is also possible that their body can no longer metabolize certain ingredients found in herbal supplements.

Make an informative decision through research

Although the law prohibits supplement manufacturers from making specific claims that their products are effective in treating certain health conditions, there are still some manufacturers that engage in this practice. As such, consumers should be well-informed through research and by obtaining conclusive data from medical professionals.

If you are caring for a senior family member, do not take chances by putting 100% of your confidence in natural supplements. Yes, these supplements can be an alternative to synthetic medication but only when it is recommended by a health-care professional.