College of Ayurvedic Diet & Digestion

College of Ayurvedic Diet & Digestion

 

DIET & LIFESTYLE

DISCOVER HOW TO HEAL

Should I Be Afraid Of Taking Herbs?

Sign in to review or comment
Herbs are not high on the list of things to be afraid of in the world. However, starting to take an herb may be unfamiliar or new which can lead to fear. Rest assured that herbs have been used for centuries to bring the body back into balance and assist its natural processes. Additionally, nearly all of our herbs come from organic sources to ensure that you are putting the very best ingredients into your body.

Can I Experiment with Herbs?

Pharmaceuticals have a strong action and are often addictive. Typically, the home user will not experiment with pharmaceuticals. On the other hand most people people find herbs less intense in action than pharmaceuticals and safe for experimentation. Herbs will often make you feel a bit sick or 'off' before they cause any real damage or harm. For example you might feel nausea, a headache, or a little emotional. When you feel these signs you should stop taking the herb. It's that simple. There are a few herbs that are more potent and dangerous, but this is the exception not the rule (ex 1 - chitrak, ex 2 - Senna, ex 3 - Poke Root).

It's also important to remember that every individuals reaction to herbs is unique, so be sure to check with your doctor before starting a new herb. Those who are pregnant, the elderly, and those with a weak constitution should exercise greater caution when experimenting with herbs. Be sure to do your research, and know the indications and contra-indications of an herb before you take.

Pharmaceutical Interactions

Like anything you put in your body, some herbs will affect the potency of a pharmaceutical by either increasing or decreasing its effectiveness. Do not stop any medicines or regimens that you are currently on that were prescribed by your primary care provider without their knowledge and approval.

Please check with your primary care provider before starting a new herb to make sure it is safe for you.

READ MORE ON THIS TOPIC
How Should I Take My Herbs?
Choosing a Carrier (Anupan) when Taking an Herb Formula
 

BROWSE SIMILAR ARTICLES BY TOPIC

Herbs Usage

LikesMy Saved Articles | Most Popular

About the Author

John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs the Joyful Belly College of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.

John's hobbies & specialties include advanced digestive disorders, medieval Catholic philosophy, & botany. He holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University. John, his wife Natalie and their 7 kids live in Asheville, NC

STUDY AYURVEDA
MASTER AYURVEDIC DIGESTION & NUTRITION 500 HOUR CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
This 1 year online program starts Oct 14th, 2025
Starts Oct 2025

Summer Diet

The season is about to shift into summer. Are you ready?

upcoming courses

Apply for Scholarship. Monhly payment plans available.

What is Ayurveda?

Founder of Joyful Belly Ayurveda, John Immel, answers the question ‘What is Ayurveda?’

Questions, Comments & Impressions of 'should i be afraid of taking herbs?'?

Is there something else you'd like to know about 'should i be afraid of taking herbs?'?

7 likes
Sign in to review or comment

Improve Enzyme output & Master your Digestion

Improve Enzyme output & Master your Digestion

BOOKS BY JOYFUL BELLY

BOOKS BY JOYFUL BELLY

Master Ayurvedic Digestion & Nutrition

Master Ayurvedic Digestion & Nutrition

Join Joyful Belly

Want our top Ayurvedic recipes and health tips?
Subscribe to our free newsletter!

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information and products on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.