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Phytotherapy (Herbal Medicine)

Herbal remedies, when supported by scientific data, can complement conventional treatment.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department. Book Appointment →

What is Phytotherapy (Herbal Medicine)?

Phytotherapy is the use of plant-derived substances to prevent and treat illness. Many modern drugs contain plant-derived active substances; for example, aspirin is derived from willow bark, and morphine from the opium poppy.

Evidence-based phytotherapy refers to the use of standardized extract products with efficacy verified in clinical studies. The fallacy of equating 'natural' with 'harmless' must be avoided.

Symptoms

St. John's wort for mild-to-moderate depression
Black cohosh for menopausal symptoms
Valerian for sleep difficulties
Turmeric and ginger for anti-inflammatory support
Echinacea for immune support
Ginkgo biloba for mild cognitive decline

Risk Factors

St. John's wort: interactions with antidepressants and anticoagulants
Ginkgo biloba: bleeding risk with blood thinners
Garlic's anticoagulant effect can be a problem before surgery
Inadequate label information leads to dosing uncertainty
Some menstruation-regulating herbs may be contraindicated in pregnancy
Hepatotoxic herbs (kava kava, comfrey) can cause liver damage

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Share all your medications with your physician before using a herbal product
  • Get physician approval to use herbal products in liver or kidney disease
  • Stop herbal products with blood-thinning effect at least 2 weeks before surgery
  • Report immediately if you suspect a herbal product interaction

Treatment Methods

01
Prefer licensed products containing standardized extracts
02
Have dose and duration set under physician or pharmacist guidance
03
Use as an adjunct to conventional treatment, not as a substitute
04
Monitor for side effects and interactions
05
Plan phytotherapy with a licensed traditional/complementary medicine physician

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.