Busting Common Myths about Herbal Medicine
With a long history of use, dating back to thousands of years, the effectiveness and benefits of herbal medicines are well documented. However, they are still largely misunderstood due to the widely prevailing myths and misconceptions.
Today, we’re going to address some of those myths and will also present you with the facts, so the next time you want to use an herbal medicine, you don’t fall prey to these misconceptions and make an informed decision.
Myth # 1 – Herbal medicines are not supported by scientific research
Fact – The key reason why there’s a lack of scientific evidence about health benefits of various herbs is that researchers did not study herbs for the longest time. It is only recently that they have shown an interest in alternative medicines and have begun to explore them. As a result, there is a growing body of research on herbal medicine and many health beneficial properties of herbs have also been confirmed by scientists.
Remember, the lack of scientific evidence doesn’t always mean that an herb is ineffective. In majority of the cases, it’s because they have not been studied by scientists.
Myth # 2 – Herbal medicines do not really work – they only have placebo effects
Fact –The only reason why herbal medicines have existed for thousands of years is because they work.
What do you think people used when modern drugs weren’t invented? They relied on herbs!
Herbs are packed with various phytochemicals that work in the body in similar ways as modern drugs. However, the concentrations of various chemicals isn’t as high. Also, the chemicals in herbs aren’t isolated as they’re in standard drugs. Therefore, herbs can take some time to work and may have multiple effects. But, they do certainly work.
Myth # 3 – Herbal medicine is the same as homeopathy
Fact – The only thing common between herbal medicine and homeopathy is that both are alternative fields of medicine. Homeopathy is based on the concept of activating the body’s self-healing energy whereas herbal medicine relies on activating pharmacological pathways to alleviate health issues. Both are two different fields of alternative medicine.
Myth # 4 - Herbal medicines are very expensive
Fact – This is a sweeping generalization. Not all herbal formulations are expensive. You can easily get herbal teas that will last you for weeks for just a few dollars. Even the herbal products that appear to expensive, like pure herbal tinctures, offer great value for money. You only use a few drops of herbal tinctures at one time, so even a small bottle will last you for quite some time.
These are some of the commonly existing myths about herbal medicines. The major reason why the industry is rife with myths and misconceptions is because there is a lack of credible sources for information. At HerbEra, we not only aim to make organic and pure herbal formulations easily accessible to everyone, but also intend to bring you authentic information about various herbs. Check out our other blog posts to learn about different herbs and what they have to offer and our shop to get your hands on the best herbal tinctures and capsules.
