HERBAL MEDICINE
I often see people who require dietary advice who are also taking herbal items. Some grow these themselves while others buy them from various suppliers.
While this is not my field of expertise I do feel it is important to but from reputable suppliers. I was very interested to attend a meeting on this subject with speakers from producers such as Potters plus expert medical herbalists.
People have been taking such products for centuries, but since May 2011 herbal remedies come under special regulations.
Certain products such as such as St John’s wort, need to be registered with the MHRA and can only be sold for the conditions for which they are registered.
The MHRA says the scheme is designed to address problems with poor quality herbal remedies, some of which were found to be adulterated or contained the wrong herb. also some products are not suitable for those who are pregnant or taking certain medications
The scheme was tightened further from May 2014. All manufactured herbal medicines now have to be authorised by the MHRA in order to be sold and supplied lawfully in the UK.
Unlike licensing for mainstream medicines, registration doesn't mean a herbal remedy has been tested and proven to actually work.
It does mean the MHRA is satisfied the product is made to good quality standards with appropriate labelling and a product information leaflet. It also means the herb has been used in traditional remedies for more than 30 years.
Registered products carry a special THR leaf logo.
