People take herbs for many reasons and many conditions. One of the biggest reasons is that herbs are considered natural and therefore healthier and gentler than conventional drugs. They are used for everything from upset stomachs to headaches. Some people take them for overall health and well-being, not for any specific condition. For others, herbal use is grounded in traditions passed down from generation to generation or recommended by folk healers.
Many herbs have health benefits.
Research has shown that echinacea cuts the length of colds and that powdered ginger is effective against motion sickness and nausea. Overall, however, research is lacking, especially well-controlled studies. There are many unanswered questions. At this point, our understanding is largely anecdotal. To address this uncertainty, federal law states that herbs cannot claim to prevent, diagnose, treat or cure a condition or disease.