CategoryHerbs and phytotherapy
Herbs are part of our culture, but “natural” does not always mean safe or effective. In this category I review herbal products through the lens of pharmacy: which have a proven effect, how they combine and when they are better avoided.
Ashwagandha: what studies show for stress and sleep, and why it is not for everyone
The fashionable herb has real but limited data. What the KSM-66 studies measured, why Denmark banned it, and for whom ashwagandha is a bad idea.
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Herbal cough syrups: do they work and when a cough is not for tea
September is here and pharmacies fill up with coughing children. Which herbal syrups have real studies behind them, when honey helps and which symptoms require a doctor, not an infusion.
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Turmeric and ginger: the trend versus the evidence
Turmeric is in every smoothie and every supplement, ginger goes everywhere. Which of the promises is proven, why black pepper is crucial and in whom the two spices are risky.
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Herbs and blood pressure: what the studies show
Millions of people with hypertension drink herbal teas without suspecting that some raise blood pressure, while others change the effect of their therapy. What is proven and what is dangerous.
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Products from the “Herbs” categoryMore on the topic
Herbs are the oldest part of pharmacy, but “natural” does not always mean harmless. In this category I look at herbal products critically: which have data from studies, which are simply tradition and which can interact with the medicines you take.
For every herb I write what the sources say, in which form it is used and who it is not suitable for. If the science is uncertain, I say that clearly too.
Phytotherapy has its place in modern health care, as long as it is conscious. Combinations with medicines are a serious topic, so if you are on chronic therapy, always consult a doctor before adding a herbal product.