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OUR EXPERTS...
Can a person on prescription drugs take herbs, vitamins or minerals
safely?
By Monica Hirai of Hirai Health Services This question depends on what
drug you are taking of course, plus what supplement, vitamin or herb you
wish to take with it. There are some good reference books on this subject,
one of which is Drugs & Natural Alternatives by Clell M. Fowles. The top
prescription drugs are discussed along with contraindications, complimentary
herbs and vitamins.
Remember that drugs (with some exceptions like “insulin” for juvenile
diabetes) are managing symptoms mainly. This usage is perfectly fine while
you look for a long-term solution, which will often include lifestyle
changes like diet, exercise and recreation.
Long-term use of most drugs leads to side-effects. This can be helped by
supporting the body while taking the medication. Most drugs use up vitamins
and minerals in the body. This happens in order for the body to digest and
assimilate the drug properly. Thus, you can actually deplete your body of
vital nutrients like vitamins and minerals with drugs. This causes other
problems that you may not have had before!
In order to determine what you need to take to offset the drug’s effects,
find out which vitamin and minerals it depletes and take the corresponding
one(s). Make sure you use a high quality brand (you get what you pay for).
You can also safely take nutritional herbs like Kelp, Clubmoss, Red
Raspberry, Ginger, Garlic, Parsley, Hawthorn, etc. These herbs are
considered to be Class 1 or Class 2 herbs. Class 1 herbs are herbs that you
can take every day because they are foods. They can be eaten in fairly large
amounts and are not toxic. Class 2 herbs are herbs that you can take in
small amounts every day for long periods of time. These herbs are also not
toxic.
Most of the time there is no problem with taking herbs during the same day
as the drugs, but please take them one hour away from drugs to avoid any
potential problems. I have not had a problem with anyone following the “One
Hour Rule”, but please remember to check with your doctor and a trusted
pharmacist to make sure that you are allowed any herbs with your medication.
Of course, the very best solution is to find out the root cause of your
health problem by making an appointment with a trusted Herbalist or Holistic
Practitioner.
For more details on Colonics or Colon Hydrotherapy, contact Monica
Hirai - Certified Herbalist/Holistic Practitioner, Colon Hydrotherapist - at
Hirai Health Services at 403.276.5756
www.hiraihealth.com
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