Some are therapeutic, yes, just as foods such as chicken soup and garlic can be therapeutic. But they should not become subject to governmental regulation. I believe that consumers should take the driver's seat of their own health care when it comes to herbal remedies and natural treatment. It takes the burden off of the medical care system, and places personal responsibility on the individual. Educating consumers on appropriate use should become a priority for health care providers.
Herbal remedies can sometimes be a supplement to or a substitute for conventional medical care.
It is important to discuss alternatives of care which fit the patient's culture, values and beliefs. I believe it is our responsibility as health care providers to help people become informed health care consumers and consider all of their options of care and treatment, whether medical, natural, herbal, wholistic, or botanical. Article written in November 1998 for Connections Quarterly. May be reproduced and distributed freely.