People with chronic illnesses should use herbal medicines with care. Herbal products should neither worsen their disease, nor cause a relapse or complications, nor interact with the drugs that have been prescribed for them. An open dialogue with the doctor and the pharmacist is essential to avoid sometimes serious consequences.

On their own, people who suffer from chronic illnesses often have the temptation to explore the world of alternative medicine, and in particular that of medicinal plants. Most of the time, these patients do not necessarily seek to treat themselves solely with the help of plants, but hope to be able to take less medication or to combat the undesirable effects caused by their treatment.

Some Simple Rules To Follow With Herbal Remedies

When suffering from a chronic disease, the use of herbal remedies requires many precautions and the observance of a certain number of rules.

1. Before Taking Herbal Medicines, Ask Your Doctor Or Pharmacist For Advice

In the case of Hua Loxium Kidney Disease (ฮั้วลักเซียมโรคไต, which is the term in Thai), seek the advice of the health professionals around you. They may not be in favor of your wish; listen to their arguments, present yours to them and try to reach a compromise. In general, pharmacists are more familiar with herbal medicine (which is one of the subjects taught to them). But never neglect to discuss it with your doctor.

2. Never Stop The Treatments Prescribed By Your Doctor To Take Medicinal Plants

Even when you want to use phytotherapy products, it is essential not to cut yourself off from proven treatments. In no case should the use of plants be a substitute for the drugs prescribed by your doctor? By doing so, the risk of relapse or complication would be considerably increased.

3. Never Hide Your Use Of Medicinal Plants From Your Doctor

It is essential never to practice shameful self-medication, either with drugs or with herbal products. Taking herbal remedies without talking to your doctor, pharmacist, or dentist can have serious consequences.

In any case, even if your doctor does not agree with your choice, keep him informed about the plants that you are taking. He can thus remain vigilant about possible undesirable effects, in particular those who require a blood test to be detected.