CHEGE: More people are using herbs to treat diseases

Some have been helpful to those who suffer from particular disorders.

In Summary
  • Unfortunately, the traditional uses are only supported by a small number of clinical research, and the findings of trials that show little or no effect are rarely reported.
  • Let's concentrate on hibiscus tea, which is one of the items that continue to gain popularity because of all of its health advantages.
Medicine on sale.
HERBAL MEDICINE: Medicine on sale.
Image: COURTESY

Medication is commonly used by people to prevent and treat health issues.

They could also make use of herbal remedies, which are a well-liked form of alternative medicine.

People are now looking for alternate methods to treat and alleviate symptoms of illnesses due to pills and medication resistance.

The use of herbal goods, particularly "special" teas, is becoming more common.

In the hopes of enhancing their overall health and preventing or treating certain ailments, people utilise these goods.

Herbs have been used to treat medical conditions for ages, and some have developed a reputation for being helpful to those who suffer from particular disorders.

Unfortunately, the traditional uses are only supported by a small number of clinical research, and the findings of trials that show little or no effect are rarely reported.

Let's concentrate on hibiscus tea, which is one of the items that continue to gain popularity because of all of its health advantages.

Hibiscus tea has several remarkable and well-known advantages, one of which is that it may lower blood pressure.

1 cup of hibiscus tea

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon of hibiscus dried flowers
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Honey

Preparation

  • Bring one and a half of water to boiling
  • Add the hibiscus flowers into boiling water and let them into boiling for about 5 minutes.
  • Sieve
  • Add lemon juice

Add (optional) 1 teaspoon of honey

Hibiscus tea can be consumed hot or cold and has a tangy flavour reminiscent of cranberries.

Hibiscus tea has been linked to several health advantages, including the ability to fight germs linked to bronchitis and UTI, lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and even promote weight loss. Hibiscus's antioxidant qualities assist in scavenging free radicals that can cause cell damage.

According to studies, hibiscus tea may help lower LDL "bad" cholesterol and raise HDL "good" cholesterol. Maintaining a healthy balance in overall blood fat levels can help lower the risk of developing atherosclerosis.

Hibiscus tea enhances liver health and aids in the liver's detoxifying processes when consumed in moderation. People with hepatic steatosis might benefit more from drinking hibiscus.

Hibiscus includes substances, according to a test-tube study, that might help fight cancer. Solid anti-cancer effects are possessed by polyphenols.

Any product that is strong enough to be successful is strong enough to have side effects, therefore natural does not necessarily mean better or safer.

Contraindications

Because plants are "natural," consumers of herbal supplements frequently believe that herbal supplements must be safe.

Any substance consumed can alter metabolism and interfere with normal bodily functions.

Both drugs and herbal products have the potential to have negative effects.

People with hypotension, expectant mothers, those using fertility medications, as well as those taking antimalarial medications, should avoid drinking hibiscus tea.

Additionally, drinking more than one cup of hibiscus tea each day can harm your liver. Drink the herb on alternate days or three days each week to prevent this.

Diet-drug interactions

Any herbal supplement may alter the effects of drugs, increase their toxicity risk, or both. As a result, it's crucial to seek medical advice before adding herbal items to your diet if you're on medicine.

Chege is a registered and licensed nutritionist based in Kenya, proficient in medical nutrition therapy.

Twitter: @LucyChegeM

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