Nutritionist Wants Standardisation Of Herbal Medicines

A Nutritionist and Biochemist, Dr Ochuko Erikainure, last Monday called on drug regulatory bodies to address the issue of dosing, standardisation and chemical profiling of herbal medicines.
Erukainure, who is a Principal Research Officer at the Federal Institute of Industrial Research (FIIRO), Oshodi, made the call in an interview with the newsmen in Lagos.
According to him, the use of herbal medicine has been in practice from time immemorial in the treatment and management of various ailments and diseases.
“Its uses are often imbibed in most cultures, particularly in places where the herb sources are indigenous and a major part of the indigenous health system, recognised by World Health Organisation (WHO) as alternative medicine.
“Unlike synthesised drugs, herbs are readily available and affordable, except for those which are seasonal.
“Although, herbal medicines are considered safe with little or no side effect, there are increasing concerns on its toxicity, side effects and overdose.
“These arise from issues concerning standardisation, characterisation and preparation, as these herbs are cocktails of phytochemicals.
“Dosing is also a major issue as most herbal medicine are self-administered,” he said.
Erukainure said that Phytochemicals have been recognised as the major ingredients responsible for the medicinal properties of these herbs.
“These phytochemicals can elicit herbal-herbal, herbal-food, or herbal-drug interactions with detrimental effects.
“Thus, cautions must be considered when using herbal drugs with other synthesised drugs, foods, as well as other herbs.
“The source of extraction or preparation also influences the efficacy and toxicity of herbs, and this is because different phytochemicals are soluble in different solvents.
“Alcohol and water are the most common extraction medium for herbal medicine,” he said.
According to him, the toxic effect associated with alcohol has led to the discouragement of the consumption of herbs macerated in alcohol.
“Studies have reported the efficacy and safety of most herbal medicines, but they have also been reported to cause liver and kidney damages.
“They have also been shown to induce the production of free radicals and inflammatory cytokines leading to oxidative and inflammative injuries.
“Herbal medicine can be therapeutic against an ailment and still elicit toxic effect in other organs; thus, cautions should be considered when using herbal medicine.