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Traditional Phytotherapy (Herbal Medicine)

Phytotherapy is the evidence-based use of medicinal plants in standardised preparations as part of integrative health care.

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 Traditional Phytotherapy (Herbal Medicine)?

Phytotherapy is the science and practice of using medicinal plants for prevention and treatment of disease, with focus on standardised extracts of known active constituents.

Common evidence-supported herbs include St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) for mild-moderate depression, valerian for sleep, ginkgo biloba for memory, milk thistle (silymarin) for liver, hawthorn for mild heart failure, ginger for nausea, and turmeric (curcumin) for osteoarthritis.

Plant materials may be used as teas, tinctures, capsules, dried extracts and topical preparations. Quality varies widely; always choose standardised products from trusted manufacturers.

Phytotherapy interacts with conventional medications: St John's wort induces cytochrome P450 (reducing efficacy of contraceptives, immunosuppressants, anticoagulants); ginkgo and garlic increase bleeding risk.

Symptoms

Mild-moderate depressive symptoms (St John's wort)
Insomnia and anxiety (valerian, passionflower, lavender)
Mild memory complaints (ginkgo biloba — limited evidence)
Functional dyspepsia and nausea (peppermint, ginger, fennel)
Mild osteoarthritis pain (turmeric/curcumin, devil's claw, boswellia)
Mild upper respiratory infection (echinacea, elderberry — modest evidence)
Liver protection (milk thistle in alcoholic and toxic hepatitis)

Risk Factors

Concurrent use with prescription drugs (warfarin, immunosuppressants, antidepressants)
Pregnancy and breastfeeding (many herbs contraindicated or insufficiently studied)
Surgery (stop ginkgo, garlic, ginseng, ginger 1–2 weeks before due to bleeding risk)
Chronic kidney or liver disease (altered metabolism, accumulation risk)
Children (most herbs not adequately studied for paediatric use)
Allergy to plant family (Asteraceae for echinacea, ragweed cross-reactivity)
Self-medication without consulting healthcare provider

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Always inform your physician and pharmacist about all herbal supplements
  • Consult before starting if pregnant, breastfeeding, on chronic medications, or before surgery
  • Liver enzyme elevation, GI symptoms or unusual bleeding while on herbs — discontinue and consult
  • Severe disease (cancer, heart failure, infection) — never replace conventional treatment
  • Choose certified phytotherapist or trained physician for individualised guidance

Treatment Methods

01
Use only standardised extracts from reputable manufacturers (look for ESCOP, EMA monographs)
02
Start with lowest effective dose; monitor for benefit and adverse effects
03
Document use in medical record — herb-drug interaction screening important
04
Treatment duration usually 4–12 weeks; reassess for efficacy and need to continue
05
Avoid combining multiple herbs without expert guidance — additive or unpredictable effects
06
Be cautious with imported and traditional preparations — possible heavy metal or pharmaceutical contamination
07
Phytotherapy works best as adjunct to lifestyle modification, not isolated remedy

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.

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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.