BBC 2 PROGRAMME DEMONSTRATED POSITIVE USE OF HERBAL MEDICINES

June Crisp, Bio-Health

BBC 2’s Alternative Medicine series, researched and presented by Professor Kathy Sykes of Bristol University, looked into the evidence for efficacy of herbal medicines. The programme met with varied feedback but some believed it took a positive view on the evidence available and suggested that clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of herbs will see herbal medicine considered equal to, and compatible with orthodox medicine in the future.

At Bio-Health we have taken the view that the programme is the beginning of a positive future for herbal medicines in the UK. Professor Sykes’s programme highlighted the growing respect for herbal medicines, amongst consumers and the scientific and medical establishment. We have always believed that herbal medicine has a lot to offer and that herbs should be viewed as a serious option in the treatment of numerous illnesses.

Until recently there has been little evidence and no industry regulation, which has led to the practice being largely viewed as a ‘mumbo jumbo’ medicine by scientists and those in orthodox medicine. It is now clear that growing evidence supporting claims for the efficacy of individual herbs, along with the introduction of safety and quality regulations by the MHRA, will help herbal medicine to achieve its rightful place as a respected and proven medical speciality.

During the programme, Professor Sykes discussed trials that demonstrate the benefits of St John’s Wort for treating mild to moderate depression, Devil’s Claw for treating arthritis and rheumatic pain, Black Cohosh for alleviating menopausal symptoms, Hawthorn for treating cardiovascular conditions and Ginkgo Biloba for treating alzheimer’s. Another development highlighted was the confirmation of the effects of synergy, providing an argument for the use of the whole herb as opposed to isolated components found in herbs.