‘Herbal care for chronic diseases dangerous’

KUWAIT CITY, Nov 21: The Ministry of Health has warned against the promotion of herbal products and nutritional supplements as treatment for some chronic diseases through messages or social networking sites, while urging the public to stop using medicines which are not prescribed by doctors, reports Al-Qabas daily. The ministry asserted these are baseless allegations and have not been scientifically proven, calling on everyone to refrain from taking any medication without consulting their doctors. The ministry also monitors the marketing of medical products, indicating it will take the necessary action against anyone proven to be marketing unregistered and unapproved products.

Meanwhile, a medical expert stressed that relying on supplements or herbs as a basic treatment for patients with diabetes, colon, blood pressure, heart, kidneys and other health issues may result in dangerous complications or even death. Also, internal diseases, digestive system and endoscopy consultant Dr Ghanem Al-Salem said that medical mixtures and preparations gained popularity through some social media accounts in view of the principles of press freedom and advertising. He clarified some of them are not dangerous, but the danger lies in ignoring the prescriptions of doctors. He affirmed the treatments for chronic diseases in hospitals are irreplaceable, as they are approved by international medical health organizations. Al-Salem emphasized the need to consult a doctor if anyone wants to take herbs or mixtures, in addition to the basic treatment provided by the hospital.