Herbal medicines
What to look for when buying a herbal medicine
If you want to try a herbal medicine,look out for a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) marking on the product packaging.
This means themedicine complies with quality standards relating to safety and manufacturing, and it provides information about how and when to use it.
However, you should be aware that:
- THR products are intended for conditions that can be self-medicated and that don't require medical supervision, such as coughs , colds or general aches and pains
- using THR products for more serious conditions could be harmful, especially if you delay seeking medical advice
- claims made for THR products are based on traditional usage and not on evidence of the product's effectiveness
- a THR mark doesn't mean the product is completely safe for everyone to take
You can find THR-registered products in your local health shop, pharmacy or supermarket.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Read about herbal medicines, including what the possible risks are, who shouldn't use them and what to look for when buying them.
Potential issues with herbal medicines
If you're taking or plan to take any herbal medicines, be aware of the following: They may cause problems if you're taking other medicines. They could result in reduced or enhanced effects of the
Who should avoid herbal medicines?
Taking a herbal medicine may not be suitable for: peopletaking other medicines people with serious health conditions, such asliver or Chronic kidney disease people due to have surgery (see below)
Herbal medicines and surgery
It's important to tell your doctor if you take any herbal medicines before undergoing surgery. This is because: some herbal medicinesmight interfere with anaesthesia and other medicines used befor
What to look for when buying a herbal medicine
If you want to try a herbal medicine,look out for a Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) marking on the product packaging. This means themedicine complies with quality standards relating to safety a
Risks of buying herbal medicines online or by mail order
The risks of obtaining fake, substandard, unlicensed or contaminated medicines are increased by buying medicines online or by mail order. Unlicensed herbal medicines manufactured outside the UK may n
Reporting side effects
You can report any side effect or adverse reaction to a herbal medicine using the Yellow Card Scheme run by the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). This can help theMHRA ide
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