herbal remedy

herbal remedy A medication prepared from plants, including most of the world’s traditional remedies for disease. Most people think of herbal remedies as products sold over the counter as “supplements,” such as saw palmetto extract and goldenseal ointment. However, many over-the-counter and prescription drugs, including aspirin and digoxin, are based on ingredients originally derived from plants. Lab tests have shown that some herbal remedies are indeed effective against illness. One should use these drugs carefully, taking care to avoid overdose, interactions with other medications, and misuse. See also dietary supplement; herbalism.