Herbal remedies have been used since ancient times in all cultures. They are indeed the base for pharmacology since plants are the main source of active components of many drugs. But unlike conventional approved drugs, no trials have been performed with herbal treatments, the exact effective dose has not been defined and the quantity of active components is not constant.

It is generally considered that herbal therapies are less toxic and without harmful effects. But this is not quite true. For example, if someone is allergic to pollen, certain herbal preparations can produce an allergic reaction, and there are cases of severe reactions.

Also toxic effects of some herbal preparations, such as Aristolochia used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, have been reported.
Therefore, if you are going to use a herbal medicine, consult your physician about potential harmful effects. Again, we recommend that you pose the following questions to your therapist:

• What training, qualifications and experience does your therapist have
• Ask if he/she is registered in any official organization
• What treatment will be recommended
• What benefits can be expected and which side effects may occur
• Ask for written information to forward to your physicians
• Ask if you may continue to use conventional medication
• Ask for an estimation of the number of sessions, length of treatment and the economic costs