Herbs really helped me!

I made some remedies from recipes that I got from www.herbalmedicinerecipes.com and it really helped me with my asthma. But I was wondering if there are any side effects from herbs? I went to FDA website and it says that herbs are not controlled substances so I assume they are mostly safe? Let me know if you have any info.

[Sunny602]

There are alot of natural compounds that do help asthma, even coffee has a bronchodilating effect! I know that herbs can be helpful in treating conditions in adjunct with traditional medicine. It does make sense as many of our pills (such as digoxin and Taxol) are derived from plants. Unfortunately you are right, the FDA doesn't regulate herbs and supplements, I believe that this will change in the future, so in a sense you don't know what you are getting. Amounts of certain herbs in preparations might vary from company to company...even what is said on the label might not be accurate.
Here is a site that describes the properties of herbs used specifically for asthma..it really was interesting to read. It also includes recipies for drinks that help with asthma symptoms.
http://www.mothernature.com/Library/Bookshelf/Books/15/81.cfm

The thing to remember is to discuss all of what you take as supplements with your doctor as some herbs and supplements can interfere with your other meds in a bad way. Here is another site that describes some interactions:
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7506

Oh, and here is a really detailed explaination of just what the FDA role of herbs and supplements, what the manufacterers must report ets...also made for good reading
http://www.bulkmsm.com/AyurvedicHerbalMSM/p52.htm

Hope this helps....Sunny :)

[john4321]

we can't trust fda to our health they are controlled by drug companies and more harm is being done by drugs than herbs . for asthma there is a product called PANKAJAKASTHURI do google it has peppers in it so there shouldn't be any side effects rather than stomach upset(if u have stomach diseases) i will check out your herb