Herbs versus Drugs

Confused by the whole "herbs versus drugs" debate? Wonder why some people eschew modern medicine in favor of virtually unregulated herbal medicines?

Here's a very good essay about the perceptions and realities of herbs/botanicals/supplements versus drugs. Herbs v. Pharma.

It is critical for effective health care and consumer protection that practitioners, educators, the industry, and regulations focus on that which is important - evidence for safety and effectiveness. Here there is a clear distinction between substances marketed under the regulations for drugs and those under the far looser regulations for herbs and supplements. Drugs typically have far greater evidence for both safety and effectiveness. Herbs, on the other hands, are typically marketed based upon tradition and anecdote with insufficient scientific evidence for safety or efficacy.

Exactly right.