How to Take Herbal Medicine Safe
In Indonesia, herbal medicines are widely consumed as herbal medicine. However, now many herbal medicines are also 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 period of time. Therefore, you need to pay attention to how to consume herbal medicines.
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 herbal medicine . The ingredients have been used for generations and are Indonesian cultural heritage recipes. Traditional herbal medicines are further grouped into herbal medicines, standardized herbal medicines (OHT), and phytopharmaca.
Non-traditional herbal medicine
This herbal medicine comes from ingredients that are not traditionally used in Indonesia, but have potential benefits for the body's health. 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 carry out a series of scientific trials to determine whether the product contains dangerous substances.
However, for herbal medicines that have been used for generations, such as herbal medicine, usually there is no need to carry out further clinical trials. However, traditional herbal medicines can be developed into standardized herbal medicines (OHT) or phytopharmaceuticals, if accompanied by empirical evidence and clinical and non-clinical trial data.
The clinical testing process for a product includes checking the type and part of the plant used, how the raw materials are processed, and the extraction method used.
Apart from that, herbal medicines circulating in Indonesia must not contain medicinal chemicals (BKO), more than 1% ethyl alcohol, narcotics or psychotropics , as well as other ingredients that can endanger health and have fatal consequences.
Clinical Effectiveness of Herbal Medicines
Almost all plants used as herbal medicine have antioxidant effects. Thanks to its high antioxidant content , 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 medicines 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 regarding the effectiveness of herbal medicines for treating disease is still very limited. Although there are many people who feel better after taking herbal medicine, quite a few also experience side effects, such as indigestion, dizziness, allergic reactions , or even poisoning.
Even though it is generally considered natural, this does not mean that herbal medicine is completely safe, especially if it is not used properly. Therefore, you should first consult a doctor before taking herbal medicine, especially if you have certain medical conditions or are taking medicine from a doctor.
Tips for Safely Taking Herbal Medicine
Most of the natural ingredients 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 herbal medicine product packaging.
To avoid dangerous side effects, follow these tips when taking herbal medicines:
Make sure the herbal product is registered with BPOM RI.
Check product expiration dates.
Follow the instructions for use and dosage listed on the packaging.
Contact herbal product customer service if you want to know more clearly about their products.
Consult a doctor first before taking herbal medicine.
Stop using herbal medicine if symptoms do not improve or get worse.
Not everyone can take herbal medicines. There are several groups who need to avoid consuming herbal medicines, namely:
Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers
People who will undergo surgery
People with certain medical conditions, such as liver function disorders, kidney function disorders, or autoimmune diseases
Apart from that, herbal medicines cannot be taken with certain medicines, such as blood pressure lowering medicines, blood thinning medicines, and medicines for diabetes, because they can cause drug interactions and serious side effects.
Consuming herbal medicines should not be done haphazardly, especially if they are used to treat disease. To avoid experiencing dangerous side effects, apply the methods above to consume herbal medicines safely.
Apart from that, don't forget to consult a doctor first before taking herbal medicine. 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
