How to Take Herbal Medicines Safely

DicatNews - Herbal medicine is widely used by Indonesian people to treat certain symptoms or diseases. Even though this drug is made from natural ingredients and has been used for a long time, you need to know how to take safe herbal medicines to avoid side effects.   

Indonesia is well known for its diversity of herbs and spices which are often used as ingredients for herbal medicine and supplements , for example pearl grass, purwoceng, and beluntas leaves. However, there are also some herbal medicines made from animals or minerals.

In Indonesia, many herbal medicines are consumed as jamu. However, nowadays herbal medicines are also widely available in the form of powders, capsules, pills, and herbal teas.

Because they are made from natural ingredients, herbal medicines are often considered safer than medical drugs . In fact, herbal medicines can still cause side effects, especially if consumed too much or for a long time. Therefore, how to consume herbal medicines needs to be considered.

Regulation and Standardization of Herbal Medicines in Indonesia

Herbal medicines that have been registered with BPOM RI are generally safe for consumption. In Indonesia, herbal medicines are grouped into two types, namely:

Traditional herbal medicine

This type of herbal medicine is known as traditional medicine or jamu . The ingredients have been used for generations and are a recipe for Indonesian cultural heritage. Traditional herbal medicines are grouped into jamu, standardized herbal medicine (OHT), and phyto-pharmacy.

Nontraditional herbal remedies

This herbal medicine comes from ingredients that are not commonly used traditionally in Indonesia, but have the potential to have health benefits. Although still rarely used in Indonesia, non-traditional herbal medicines have been used in other countries for generations.

Before allowing the distribution of herbal medicinal products, BPOM RI will conduct a series of scientific trials to ascertain whether these products contain harmful substances.

However, herbal medicines that have been used for generations, such as herbal medicine, usually do not need clinical trials anymore. However, traditional herbal medicines can be developed into standardized herbal medicines (OHT) or phyto-pharmacy, if accompanied by empirical evidence and clinical and non-clinical trial data.

The clinical trial process of a product includes checking the types and parts of plants used, the processing of raw materials, and the extraction methods used.

In addition, herbal medicines circulating in Indonesia must not contain medicinal chemicals (BKO), ethyl alcohol of more than 1%, narcotics or psychotropic substances , and other substances that can endanger health and have fatal consequences.

Clinical Effectiveness of Herbal Medicines

Almost all plants used as herbal medicine have antioxidant effects. Due to the high content of antioxidants , herbal medicines are often consumed to maintain health and reduce the risk of various diseases, such as cancer, dementia, diabetes, and atherosclerosis .

There are also herbal remedies that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-pain properties. That is why, herbal medicines are also often used to treat fever and pain due to inflammation or infection.

However, data on the effectiveness of herbal medicines for the treatment of diseases are still very limited. Although there are many people who feel better after taking herbal medicine, not a few experience side effects, such as indigestion, dizziness, allergic reactions , or even poisoning.

Even though it is generally considered natural, it does not mean that herbal medicine is completely safe, especially if it is not used properly. Therefore, you should consult your doctor first before taking herbal medicines, especially if you have certain medical conditions or are currently taking medications from a doctor.

Safe Tips for Taking Herbal Medicines

Most of the natural ingredients that are used as herbal medicines are safe for consumption. Even so, herbal medicines still have the potential to cause side effects. Information about possible side effects is usually listed on the packaging of herbal medicinal products.

In order to avoid dangerous side effects, follow these tips when taking herbal remedies:

• Make sure the herbal product has been registered with BPOM RI.
• Check the product expiration date.
• Follow the instructions for use and dosage listed on the packaging.
• Contact a herbal product consumer service if you want to know more about their product.
• Consult a doctor first before taking herbal medicine.
• Stop using herbal remedies if symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Not everyone is also allowed to take herbal medicines. There are several groups that need to avoid consuming herbal medicines, namely:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers
• People who are going to have surgery
• People with certain medical conditions, such as impaired liver function, impaired kidney function, or autoimmune disease

In addition, herbal medicines cannot be taken with certain drugs, such as blood pressure-lowering drugs, blood-thinning drugs, and drugs for diabetes, because they can cause drug interactions and serious side effects.

The consumption of herbal medicine should not be arbitrary, especially if it is used to treat disease. In order not to experience dangerous side effects, apply the methods above to take herbal medicines safely.

In addition, don't forget to consult with your doctor before taking herbal remedies. That way, the doctor can determine whether herbal medicine is safe for your condition, and determine the type and dose of herbal medicine that suits your needs.

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