A few considerations for alternative medications:
TYPES OF HERBALS AND SYNTHETIC MEDICINE St John’s Wort – for moderate depression, dysthymia, sleep Gingko Biloba – for dementia, depression; has side effects SAMe – for depression and pain, can cause mania
Valerian plant – for insomnia and anxiety
Omega 3 fatty acids – for mood stability, as in bipolar disorder, and brain and heart
WORDS OF CAUTION
l Quality control is not known
l Side effects are not clearly known
l Not sure what brands can be trusted and there is often variability between them l Generally used for mild and moderate problems
l Not sure of their preventative impact
l Not sure of their interactions with other herbs, foods, and other medications
l Professional consultation is usually at the level of a clerk
l May delay someone from getting more effective treatment for serious problems
POTENTIAL BENEFITS
l Usually less expensive than the alternatives
l Need not reveal their use to an insurance company or other agency l Usually have fewer side effects
l Compliance is usually higher
l More helpful for mild and moderate problems
USER GUIDELINES l Use at your own risk l Evaluate relative benefits periodically l Ask your physician to assess for any adverse effects if used over a long time l Tell your physician of your use of herbal or alternative medicines if other medications are being considered l Read and study the research on the herbs you are taking l Be aware of their benefits and side effects as you take them over time
Do you use alternative practices? What helps you?
Author
TMcCurdy, MA, MEd, AMS, RPT, REAT
PSYD-Doctor of Psychology Associate
Licensed Psychotherapist (LPCC) in Colorado
Expressive Arts Therapist (EXAT)
Special Education and Disability Specialist
Montessori Certified Teacher and School Leader who has worked with: Infants, Toddlers, Children, Teens and Young Adults for over 20 years
Writer, Author and Speaker
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