12 A. Office of Alternative Medicine established in 1992 B. Remedies that Might Help 1. Echinacea - a few controlled studies suggest it increases resistance to upper respiratory infections probably by increasing the white blood cell count. Safety - Nurse needs to be aware of more toxic agents 2. Atropa belladonna - belladonna, deadly nightshade 3. Effectiveness - safety does not imply effectiveness.
Efficacy depends on ailment and the quality and dose of the herbal used.
Since sold as food products, rarely evaluated for therapeutic value or harmlessness. Instruct client to consult with healthcare provider about herbal medications. Prescribers provide information on efficacy of particular remedy. Pregnant and nursing women should not take any alternative remedy without prescriber approval. Counsel individual to life-style changes that might be more effective.