An approach in which standardized herbal products are used under physician supervision as a complement to modern treatment. Drug interactions and safety assessment are central to the practice.
Indication
- Supportive therapy for mild to moderate digestive complaints (bloating, indigestion)
- Support for mild sleep difficulties and tension complaints
- Symptomatic support in upper respiratory tract infections
- Support for mild vasomotor complaints related to menopause (with physician decision)
- Adjunctive approach for functional digestive issues such as constipation
- Complementary use to support quality of life in chronic illness
Preparation
- All regularly used medications (especially blood thinners, antidepressants, chemotherapy drugs) are reported
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or planned surgery must be disclosed
- Liver and kidney disease and other chronic conditions are listed
- Information on currently used herbal products and dietary supplements is shared
How it's performed
- Patient history, current treatments, and complaints are evaluated in detail
- Evidence-based herbal options for the targeted complaint are reviewed
- Possible drug-herb interactions are checked
- Standardized, registered/approved products are preferred; dosage and duration are provided in writing
- Existing medication treatment is not stopped; herbal support is planned as an 'add-on'
- Response and side effects are checked at defined intervals
Post-procedure
- Close monitoring for side effects and interactions during the first 2-4 weeks
- Changes in digestion, sleep, skin, or bleeding tendency are reported to the physician
- Products are stopped 1-2 weeks before scheduled surgery
- Treatment duration is planned according to the complaint; chronic use requires physician approval
- Regular follow-up evaluates whether the product should be updated or discontinued
Risks
- Drug interactions (well-known serious interactions with St. John's wort, Ginkgo, garlic, etc.)
- Elevated liver enzymes and, rarely, toxic hepatitis (with some products)
- Allergic reactions; skin rash, itching, anaphylaxis (rare)
- Increased bleeding risk in patients on blood thinners
- Risk of incorrect dosing or contamination with non-standardized products
FAQ
Can phytotherapy replace drug therapy?
No. Phytotherapy is not a replacement for modern medical treatment but a complementary approach added to it under physician supervision when appropriate.
Does it treat serious diseases such as cancer or heart disease?
No. No herbal product can be offered with claims of treating serious diseases such as cancer or heart disease. Such products may only be planned, with physician approval, to support quality of life.
Is it harmless because it is natural?
Being of natural origin does not mean it is safe. Herbal products can also cause serious side effects and drug interactions. Physician consultation is essential.
Can I continue using herbal products before surgery?
Many herbal products increase bleeding risk or interact with anesthesia. They should be discontinued 1-2 weeks before surgery with physician approval.
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