Educating the Client on the Use of Herbs and Nutritional Supplements

The use of herbs and nutritional supplements to treat various disorders is common. Herbs are used for various effects, such as to boost the immune system, treat depression, and for relaxation. Individuals are becoming more aware of the benefits of herbal therapies and nutritional supplements. Advertisements, books, magazines, and Internet sites abound concerning these topics. People, eager to cure or control various disorders, take herbs, teas, megadoses of vitamins, and various other natural products. Although much information is available on nutritional supplements and herbal therapy, obtaining the correct information sometimes is difficult.
 

Medicinal herbs and nutritional substances are available at supermarkets, pharmacies, health food stores, specialty herb stores, and through the Internet. The potential for misinformation abounds. Because these substances are “natural products,” many individuals may incorrectly assume that they are without adverse effects. When any herbal remedy or dietary supplement is used, it should be reported to the nurse and the primary health care provider. Many of these botanicals have strong pharmacological activity, and some may interact with prescription drugs or be toxic in the body. For example, comfrey, an herb that was once widely
used to promote digestion, can cause liver damage. Although it may still be available in some areas, it is a
dangerous herb and is not recommended for use as a supplement.
 

When obtaining the drug history, the nurse must always question the patient about the use of herbs, teas, vitamins, or other nutritional or dietary supplements. Many patients consider herbs as natural and therefore safe. It is also difficult for some to report the use of an herbal tea as a part of the health care regimen. Display 1-4 identifies teaching points to consider when discussing the use of herbs and nutritional supplements with patients. Although a complete discussion about the use of herbs is beyond the scope of this book, it is important to remember that the use of herbs and nutritional supplements is commonplace in many areas of the country. To help the student become more aware of herbal therapy and nutritional supplements, Appendix B gives CHAPTER 1 General Principles of Pharmacology 13 an overview of selected common herbs and nutritional supplements. In addition, Herbal Alerts are placed in various chapters throughout the book, giving the student valuable information or warnings about the use of herbs.