Natural herbal services in Toronto
                     Herbal Medicines
Herbal medicines, also known as botanicals, are dietary 
supplements made from plants or plant extracts. They 
have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to 
promote health and wellness. Here are some key points 
about herbal medicines:
Benefits:
 Can be used to prevent or treat various health 
conditions, such as colds, digestive issues, and skin 
problems
 May have fewer side effects compared to 
conventional medications
 Can be used in conjunction with conventional 
medications (under medical supervision)
Popular Herbal Medicines:
 Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
 Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
 Garlic (Allium sativum)
 Ginkgo biloba
 St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Precautions:
 Consult a healthcare professional before using herbal 
medicines, especially if you have a medical condition or 
take medications
 Ensure proper identification and preparation of herbal 
remedies to avoid contamination or adulteration
 Be aware of potential interactions with conventional 
medications or other herbal supplements
Herbal supplements come in all forms. They may be dried,
chopped, powdered, or in capsule or liquid form. They can
be used in many ways, including:
 Swallowed as pills, powders, or concentrated liquid 
extracts (tinctures)
 Brewed as tea
 Used on the skin as gels, lotions, or creams
 Added to bath water
The practice of using herbal supplements dates back 
thousands of years. Today, herbal supplement use is 
common in the Canada.
 But they are not for everyone. They are not subject to close scrutiny by the
Health Canada. For this reason, herbal supplements are still controversial. 
Talk with your healthcare provider about any symptoms or conditions you 
have. Discuss the use of herbal supplements.
Herbal supplements can interact with conventional medicines. Some may 
have strong effects. Don't self-diagnose or self-prescribe. \
Talk with your healthcare provider before taking herbal supplements.
 Educate yourself. Learn as much as you can about the herbs you 
are taking. Talk with your provider and contact herbal supplement 
manufacturers for information. Pharmacists can be easy to access, 
reliable sources of information on the effects of herbal supplements. 
They can also provide helpful information about any interactions 
between medicines and herbal supplements.
 Follow label instructions carefully. If you use herbal supplements, 
use the prescribed dosage only. Never take more than the advised 
dosage. Look for information about who should not take the 
supplement. Find out if there are any health conditions, certain 
medicine interactions, or other factors when the supplement should 
not be used.
 Work with a professional. Look for the services of a trained and 
licensed herbalist or licensed naturopathic healthcare provider who 
has a lot of training in this area.
 Watch for side effects. If you have symptoms, such as nausea, 
dizziness, rash, headache, or upset stomach, reduce the dosage or 
stop taking the supplement. Get medical care if symptoms don't 
decrease. Or if they get worse.
 Watch for allergic reactions. A severe allergic reaction can cause 
trouble breathing. If such a problem happens, call 911 or the 
emergency number in your area for help.
Taking herbal supplements may increase or decrease the effectiveness of 
other drugs you are taking or may increase the risk of negative side effects.
For example, St John’s Wort mostly decreases the effectiveness of other 
medicines but increases the effects of antidepressants.
Purchase herbal medicine products from a reputable supplier
Herbal medicines made in Canada are subject to regulations. Consult with 
your pharmacist about the safety and effectiveness of the herbal medicine 
or supplements you are thinking of buying. If you are considering taking 
herbal medicine, it is recommended that you:
 Never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your 
doctor.
 Always tell your doctor if you are planning to start a course of herbal 
medicine for your condition.
 Seek advice from your qualified health practitioner, your doctor or 
your pharmacist about the herbal medicine’s safety, quality and 
effectiveness.
 Always purchase products from a reputable source. Be cautious 
about buying herbal medicines or supplements manufactured 
overseas.
 Take all herbal medicines strictly as prescribed and consult your 
health practitioner immediately if you experience any side effect.