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Postscript:

PHYTOTHERAPY/BOTANICAL MEDICINE RESEARCH

Through this, awareness is created among the people, and visibility of the product is enhanced. While this is ensured, the accessibility of these medicines among the people is increased. Therefore, it serves as an effective way to ensure that different people access these medicines at different places. The other reason is the presence of a long queue when visiting a medical doctor. This makes the majority of people view herbal medicine as the only available alternative. The time spent when seeing a medical doctor is unbearable for most people. In addition to this, most hospitals are understaffed, which makes it difficult for a large population to receive the required medical attention. This condition makes these individuals rely on the availability of herbal medicines. In other instances, people, especially those living in rural areas, may need urgent medical attention. However, many rural areas do not have effective infrastructure such as good roads to offer adequate transport of patients to the nearby health centre. Therefore, the high chances are that herbal medicine will serve as the most alternative.

As most people living in any part of the world cannot afford the cost of modern medication (Aydin et al., 2008).

Besides, the commonly known mobile clinics may not be willing to attend to people's health concerns due to poor infrastructure. Therefore, they use the available alternative treatment. THE IMPORTANCE OF HERBAL MEDICINE The use of herbal medicines among different communities is far and wide. Many communities are using these drugs raising concerns on how often they use modern clinical medication. Ideally, modern clinical medicine is decreasing since many people are shifting their attention to herbal medicines. Herbal medicine is used mainly for health reasons. It offers effective health promotion and therapy for chronic and life- threatening health conditions. However, studies show that the use of these medicines increases when modern clinical medicine is unavailable, or people cannot afford it. Herbal medicine is also considered adequate when other medication cannot cure diseases like cancer and new infectious diseases. The use of herbal medicine is far and wide. There is a likelihood that every person has used herbal medicine in their lifetime to cure a specific health condition. Based on the rate at which people are using herbal medicine, it is evident that these medicines are effective in different ways. One of the herbal medicines that are currently primarily used is derived from Ephedrasinica. According to Eng et al. (2019), this herb has a long history for many years. different communities have been using it to cure acute respiratory infections such as asthma and the common cold. Its efficacy has been demonstrated in many clinical trials and has been considered adequate. In addition to this, the Ephedra Sinica has currently been included in the therapeutic use in the Chinese health care system and is deemed to be no-toxic. The market for this medicine has grown significantly for the last few years, with most of it being exported to the United States as a weight-loss dietary. Several other studies associate the use of Ephedra sinica with a significant decline of adverse events such as transient blindness and hepatotoxicity. Another most common botanical is the Aconitum Species. They primarily constitute essential ingredients used to cure other severe conditions such as stroke and heart failure. Other diseases it is used to cure are diabetes and diarrhoea. Tussilago farfarais another herb that is considered critically essential, thus making herbal medicine more critical. This herb is used to produce medicine used for many years to treat acute and chronic coughs (Avila et al., 2020). It is considered non-toxic, and this means that it cannot cause adverse health effects to people. Other herbs such as aloe vera, black pepper, red cover and safflower have primarily been used by many people and communities to heal boils and sores. The medical field was not advanced in ancient times, and people heavily relied on this herbal medicine to cure sores. Today, many communities still use this botanical for medicinal purposes. Some other herbs are easy to grow, smell good and attract butterflies and bees. Some examples of such herbs include apple mint, Golden Oregano, basil, and chives. These herbs can be grown quickly, indicating that they are readily available to most individuals. According to Van Vuuren &Frank (2020), people majorly use some of these herbs to improve immunity. They are also considered adequate because they aid in removing toxic substance from the blood. Many of these types of herbs are used as blood purifiers by eliminating metabolic toxins, improving immunity, and reducing cases of fever. Other herbs such as turmeric have antibiotic properties essential in germ control by inhibiting their growth and harmful bacteria and microbes. When one needs to cure fever and certain types of heat produced by the condition, they may use Chirayta, black pepper, and safflower. They are also widely recognized herbal medicines, especially in India. When arresting a discharge of blood or mucus, sandalwood is considered adequate. It is a class of herb from trees in the genus tantalum. Its oil is also used to treat headaches, stomach aches, urinary and genital disorders. In other countries across the world, this herb is used to treat skin diseases. For instance, the Chinese have been using it to treat patients with severe skin diseases. Different communities have primarily used some other herbs to reduce stomach acidity. In this regard, they serve as effective antacids, and scientists point that these herbs retain the healthy gastric acid required for adequate digestion. In the case of snake bites, sages are considered effective in neutralizing the poison (Lust, 2014). These herbs are applauded for their role in addressing some health conditions that require urgent care. For appetizing, herbs such as coriander are used. Other herbs have a pleasing aroma and are added to food to produce a pleasant smell, thus increasing the taste of food. These herbs include cloves and peppermint. When people report persistent cough, Ginger and cloves are recommended herbs (Lust, 2014). For good blood circulation to be realized, herbs such as basil, fennel, and calamus are primarily used. Although these herbs may be considered ineffective, they are considered adequate, especially when curing infectious diseases. They are considered adequate because they inhibit the growth of germs.

The past century has experienced a significant production of chemically synthesized drugs. With this being the fact, there has been witnessed a revolution in the field of medicine. It is now evident that many people use herbal medicines for primary healthcare. For instance, according to Hishet al., 2016, over seventy percent of the African population heavily relies on herbalists to meet their health needs. In China also, research shows that herbal medicine accounts for forty percent of the overall healthcare delivered. The 2005 World Health Organization reports indicates that over ninety percent of healthcare institutions in China use herbal medicines to treat various diseases. In most of the developed regions such as America, people recognize the importance of herbs. As Barnes et al., (2008) assert, America has seen a significant increase in herbal medicines among adults and children. By drawing illustrations from other relevant bodies, it can be outlined that when an herbal medicine seems to be routinely used, there is a possibility that it is primarily used as an alternative. People use herbal medicines because they are more affordable and significantly correspond to the ideology of the patient. It also promotes greater access to health information at the public level and enables a more personalized healthcare provision. The primary use of herbal medicine is for health promotion purposes. However, research shows that the use of these types of medicine increases when other types of medicine are considered ineffective in curing a specific health condition. They are also primarily regarded as natural and safe for human medication. However, this is only true when they are taken a prescribed by herbalist. Regardless of how and why people use herbal medicines, they provide critically essential healthcare services for different health needs. Currently, herbal medicine is used to treat other chronic diseases, including prostate problems and heart-related infections. In 2003, China used a combination of different herbal medicines to treat SARs (Xueel al ., 2003). Other reports show that Africans use herbal medicines to treat deadly diseases such as HIV/ AIDS. Although this attempt has been futile, this is clear indication that communities recognize the use of herbal medicines. In France, Europe and Germany, herbal medicine is a priority in treating different types of diseases. It is not surprising to find herbs, essential oil, and herbal medicine sold in streets and pharmacies across many developed countries. These medicines can be processed and taken in different ways and forms depending on people's preferences. This includes ointment, rubs, tablets, capsules, and many other types.

ADVERSE EFFECTS OF HERBAL MEDICINE

Like any other medicine, herbal medicine, though considered natural and safe, presents harmful effects on an individual's health. Everything is ingestible can be detrimental to humans if not adequately utilized. Based on this, people cannot deviate from the truth that some herbal medicines are not fit for human use. The fact that they are not even clinically examined makes their usage more worrying. As people use these medicines, precaution should be emphasized on the possible side effects these medicines might present. Again, people should raise the alarm and report any cases involving the illegal distribution of unverified herbal medication. By doing so, some long-term health effects caused by herbal medicines, may be addressed. For many years now, people have been using herbal medicine, citing its effectiveness and availability in enhancing the quality of life. By looking at its holistic approach and the benefits of these medicines, people are much attracted to using them. However, from the scientific point of view, these medicines pose adverse health effects to the users. The majority of manufacturers and marketers of herbal medicines do not produce proof of the efficacy of their medications (Posadzki et al 2013). For this reason, the adverse effects associated with herbal medicines are numerous and largely unrecognized.

Before people can use herbal medicine, they should clearly understand that they are not scientifically tested. The relevant bodies have also not authorized the use of these medicines. Based on this assertions, herbal medicines should not be approved for marketing to treat and prevent diseases. Again, people should take the necessary precautions when using these drugs.

Nonetheless, the 1994 supplement health education act requires these herbal medicines to be recorded and labelled with a clear statement explaining their side effects on human health. They should also show their overall role in promoting the general well-being of an individual. Unlike the other conventional drugs that undergo a rigorous laboratory test, herbal medicines are not tested, and thus, they cannot be considered pure and potent. Therefore, it is proper to argue that impurities are the primary cause of adverse effects of herbal drugs on humans. Ideally, many individuals use herbal medicines while also using other contemporary medications for hypertension, diabetes, and thyroid diseases, among others (Posadzki et al.,2013). The majority of those who use this medicine are on long-term treatment for the identified chronic health conditions. Many misleading commercial websites are readily available on the internet, trying to spread information about the efficacy of herbal medicines. They try to argue that these medicines do not have any significant adverse health effects.

People usually share different information concerning the use and importance of herbal medicines. Concerning this, users think that these medicines are safe because they are natural. However, this is not usually true. They can potentially be toxic. Research shows that herbal medicines have effects on human health so before taking in any herbal medicines, you should talk to your healthcare provider. There is no one- size-fits-all. One of the adverse health effects of herbal medicine is kidney failure (Posadzki et al., 2013). Naturally, these medicines contain toxic chemicals that negatively react with another drug. Other reports also indicate that these medicines can decrease the effectiveness of other medications that a person is taking. Therefore, if one intends to use herbs for medical purposes, they should talk to their doctor about the possible side effects that the medicines might cause. This finding was extracted from a specific report published in the Australian medical journal. In efforts to address this situation, many governments are implementing the necessary results concerning medical regulations. The government has also opted to introduce harsh penalties to herbal medicines manufactures who were continuously making misleading and false claims. The other adverse effect of herbal medicine is that it may cause severe burns to the skin. Some other types of herbal medicines may contain toxic substances such as mercury that may cause adverse effects to the skin (Ratnaike, 2003). Other types of herbal medications that can cause adverse effects on the skin include Kava and Aloe Vera.

There are other numerous adverse effects of herbal medicines that have been reported. For instance, a recent study about Yoyo cleanser Bitters shows that this product contains a toxic substance that can cause significant effects to the body of an individual. This is an herbal medicine that is primarily advertised and used in more extensive parts of Nigeria. According to research, herbal medicines have received much public acceptance and continue to be used by most people, especially in the southern part of the country. A report from one young male adult using Yoyo Cleanser Bitters for medical purposes shows that this herbal medicine's continued use can lead to potassium loss in the body (Onwordi et al., 2015). Although this product's extracts reveal that it is safe during the early stages of usage, it becomes toxic over time. Another recent research study conducted among participants in various African countries such as Uganda and Congo indicate that prolonged use of herbal medicines can cause liver fibrosis. Some other widely used Chinese herbal medicines have also been associated with poison that may not be detected at the initial stages of the drug application. Still, as time progresses, they have been implicated in many cases of poisoning. Moreover, most of them have portrayed the capacity to inhibit toxic compounds, which can react with DNA, thus causing cellular toxicity.

Despite the numerous toxicity effects associated with herbal medicines, various herbal medicines in the market are less likely to be toxic. This is because they are recognized by medical practitioners and even introduced in the treatment of different adverse health conditions in important health centres. Some other botanicals are likely to be low quality and exhibit severe health effects indifferent controlled studies. However, people may maintain that herbal medicines are safe and effective (Calixto, 2000). These assertions could be the main reason behind delayed measures to address the adverse health effects caused by these herbal medicines.

In conclusion, the majority of people across the world use herbal medicines. These types of medicines are obtained from different plants, and they cure different health conditions. The extent to which people are using these drugs is raising concerns about the efficacy of clinical medicines. They are considered easier to access and affordable. This means that these medicines are most considered adequate when people cannot afford the other medications. These medicines can also cure different types of heath conditions such as hypertension and heart- related infections. Medical practitioners also use them as curative agents of certain other chronic diseases such as cancer. However, when not administered effectively, herbal medicines can cause liver infection. They also inhibit toxic compounds, most of which can react with DNA, thus causing cellular toxicity. People should understand that not all herbal medicines sold are safe. It can be mainly due to misidentification of the plants in the form or incorrect preparation and administration of herbal medicine by inadequate trained professionals. An individual should purchase these medicines from a reputable supplier or a manufacturer, such as pharmacies. When making an online purchase of herbal medicine, people are also encouraged to be more careful. Numerous unregulated herbal drugs in the market can cause adverse health conditions for individuals.

REFERENCES

Avila, C., Breakspear, I., Hawrelak, J.,

Salmond, S., & Evans, S. (2020). A systematic review and quality assessment of case reports of adverse events      for borage (Borago officinalis), coltsfoot (Tussilago Farfara), and comfrey (Symphytum officinale) Fitoterapia,142,104519.

Aydin, S., Bozkaya, A. O.,

MAZICIOGLU, M. M., Gemalmaz, A., Ozcakir, A., & Ozturk, A. (2008). What influences herbal medicine use?prevalence and related factors. Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences, 38 (5), 455-463.

Barnes, P. M., Bloom, B., & Nahin, R.L. (2008). Complementary and alternative medicine use among adults and children; the United States, 2007.

Calixto, J. B. (2000). Efficacy, safety, quality control, marketing, and regulatory guidelines for herbal medicines (phytotherapeutic agents). Brazilian Journal of medical and Biological research, 33(2), 179-189.

Eng, Y. S., Lee, C. H., Lee, W.C., Huang,

C. C., & Chang, J.S. (2019). Unravelling the molecular mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine: formulas against acute airway viral infections as examples. Molecules, 24 (9), 3505.

Hishe, M., Asfaw, Z., & Giday, M. (2016). Review on value chain analysis of medicinal plants and the associated challenges. Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies, 4(3), 45-55.

Lust, J. (2014). The herb book: the complete catalog of herbs ever published. Courier Corporation.

Onwordi,C. T., Agbo, N., & Ogunwande, I. A. (2015). Levels of potentially toxic metals in selected herbal medicines in Lagos, Nigeria. Journal of Natural Sciences Research, 5(2), 148-156.

Posadzki, P., Watson, L. K., & Ernst, E. (2013). Adverse effects of herbal medicines: An overview of systematic reviews. Clinical medicine, 13 (1), 7.

Ratnaike, R.N. (2003). Acute and chronic arsenic toxicity. The postgraduate medical journal, 79(933), 391-396.

Sharma, S., Sharma, R., Singh, H., & Nelkumar, B. (2011). History of Medicine- herbal medicine scenario; A review. Research Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics, 3(2), 45-47.

Van Vuuren, S., & Frank, L, (2020). Southern African medicinal plants are used as blood purifiers- Journal of ethnopharmacology,249, 112434.

World Health Organization. (2019). WHO global report on traditional and complementary medicine 2019. World Health Organization.

Xue, C. C., Thien, F. C., Zhang, J. J., Da Costa, C., & Li, L. G. (2003). Treatment for seasonal allergic rhinitis by Chinese herbal medicine: A randomized placebo- controlled trial. OTHER BOTANICAL PLANTS Agrimony, also called sticklewort. It belongs to Rosaceae family. The leaves and seeds are used in medical preparations. It has anti-inflammatory properties and antibacterial. Agrimony leaves is a good treatment for migraines. It may induce deep sleep. The leaves are used for tea which may help in addressing digestive problems and diarrhea. Anise hyssop. It belongs to Lamiaceae family. Anise hyssop is a good tonic for anginal pain. The leaves have anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. A good remedy for Herpes Simplex I and II. Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera, this plant is used as an immune booster. It balances hormonal levels. It combats stress, anxiety and depression which acts as a mood stabilizer. Ashwagandha balances blood glucose levels which is beneficial to diabetic patients. It helps improve sexual function. This plant is known to increases stamina, endurance, and muscle performance. Studies show that it has anti-tumor effects. Cabbage, Brassica oleracea, cabbage is an edible common vegetable. It contains sulfurous compound which is beneficial in healing the body. Cabbage juice is used in treating cancers such as stomach, intestines, pancreas, and prostrate. It helps control diabetes. The cabbage leaves can be applied as a poultice over the affected area. Calendula, Calendula officinalis known as Pot Marigold. Calendula flowers and leaves are edible. It is used to treat skin diseases. It soothes  abdominal cramps caused by constipation and menstrual pain by drinking calendula tea. It helps in healing stomach and intestinal diseases. Calendula works in the immune system and lymphatic system, reduces swollen lymph nodes and prevent infections. Chicory, Cichorium intybus, flowers are purple. It is also called blue dandelion. This anti-parasitic plant, the roots contain lactucin and lactucopicri, both known as anti-malarial. It has hepatoprotective properties by using the leaves, roots and seeds of chicory. Chicory plant in leaf powder form stimulates insulin secretion with diabetic patient. Chives, Allium schoenoprasum chives contain allicin as it is from onion family which lowers blood pressure, cholesterols and promotes heart health. The diuretic properties of chives flushes toxin from the body that urge urination. Comfrey, Symphytum officinale the use of comfrey tea treats coughs congestion and asthma. The leaves and roots are a perfect source in healing minor skin injuries, burns, rashes, eczema, psoriasis and minor wound. Common Flax, Linum usitatissimum known as Linseed. Flax seed is rich in dietary fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed have antioxidants that helps with autoimmune conditions. It helps and ease constipation issues. Couch Grass, Agropyron repens is effective for treating swollen prostate glands. It has anti-inflammatory properties which is good for treating gout and rheumatoid arthritis. Dandelion, Taraxacum officinale improves liver health and gallbladder functions. Dandelion extracts are high in antioxidants that prevents and treat cancer. Echinacea angustifolia, purple coneflower helps to relieve allergies and respiratory diseases. It reduces common cold and flu. Elecampane, Inula helenium a member of sunflower family. Its high inulin content is beneficial for patients with high blood sugar Type 2 diabetes. Inulin reduces blood sugar spikes and decreases insulin resistance. It helps in fighting certain cancer due to it contains alantolactone and isoalantolactone which promotes apoptosis or cell death in cancer patients. Evening primrose, Oenothera biennis helps hormonal imbalance in women, polycystic ovarian syndrome and premenstrual symptoms. Hot flashes symptoms in menopausal women and a lot more uses and benefits of this plant. Fennel, Foeniculum vulgare stem, leaves and seeds are edible. Fennel is a strong detoxifier and diuretic. For urinary tract infections and kidney stones problem. Gargle with fennel infusion as treatment for sore throat and for gum remedies. Fennel has hormonal effects and should not be taken by pregnant women. Garlic, Allium sativum is effectively lowers blood cholesterol levels and controls high blood pressure. Garlic bulbs has antibiotic properties releasing its sulfurous compounds when finely chopped and crushed. Acts as an expectorant, useful in the treatment of bronchitis. It lowers blood sugars in diabetics patient which increases the release of insulin by the pancreas. Holy Basil, Ocimum tenuiflorum also known as Tulsi can be taken as tea. It is loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. For skin rashes, ringworm and other skin conditions, rub against the skin for it has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Holy basil is a potential anti-cancer. It is a mild diuretic, reduces uric acid levels in the blood. It works to reduce blood sugar in patients with prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes. Nicole Apelian, Ph.D & Claude Davis, The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies, A-H (2021)

Bay Laurel, Laurus nobilis, parts used are leaves and essential oil preparations. An infusion of the leaves used for its warming and tonic effect on the stomach and bladder conditions. The leaves are applied to skin to relieve wasp and bee stings. Celery, Smallage is a good cleansing, diuretic herb and the seeds are used for arthritic problems and seeds also have a carminative action with mild tranquilizing effects. Chili, Cayenne It relieves muscle spasm. This is applied to the skin. Capsaicin desensitizes nerve endings and acts as a counter-irritant. Gymnema, Gymnema sylvestre, leaves contain saponins. It is used in treating diabetes. Gymnema may help to regenerate cells in the pancreas which secretes insulin. Research studies Gymnema may encourage repair of the islet cells of the pancreas. The Gymnema leaves have been shown to anaesthetize the sweet taste buds of the tongue, and temporarily reduce appetite. Hibiscus, Hibiscus sabdariffa, the parts used are the flowers and leaves. Hibiscus plant makes a refreshing, pleasant tasting tea that is cooling and mildly sedative. Sooths hot and feverish conditions. Clinical studies have shown that hibiscus helps to lower high blood pressure. Star Anise, IIIicium verum, the parts used are the fruits and seeds. It contains a volatile oil. Dried star anise is a digestive, stimulant and diuretic remedy. This Chinese herbal medicine used as a remedy for rheumatism, back pain and hernias. It is an effective remedy for colic. Wormwood, Artemisia absinthium It has a bitter taste and strong tonic effect on the digestive system especially on the stomach and gallbladder. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. It has occasionally been given as an antidepressant. Andrew Chevallier FNIMH, Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, First Edition (2016). Gynura procumbens, the longevity spinach. Its health benefits used in lowering blood sugar. It lowers blood cholesterol level and with anti-inflammatory properties.

Most green leaves are the most powerful medicine to control blood sugar level at one go. The moment you take green leaves be it spinach, radish leaves, coriander leaves, mint leaves or any other leaf for that matter, the insulin requirement of insulin-dependent patient will reduce drastically in two hours, and the patient would have to reduce the dosage of insulin. If the patient does not reduce the dosage of conventional insulin, he will directly come into the hypoglycemic state or hypoglycemia. The insulin-dependent patients will be able to notice this difference on taking green leaves. > TBC