Hi Sandra, I'm a sportsperson and I like using natural products to support my recovery, for inflammation and to improve my stamina. The issue is, I have to undergo regular drug testing for my sport. Is it safe to take herbal medicine? Jason, Mt Eden
Hi Jason, I don't have an easy or straightforward answer to this question. However, there are a few points that you should keep in mind when deciding whether or not to use herbal medicine to support performance or recovery.
Firstly, the quality of the product is of utmost importance. Drug Free NZ report that a significant number of positive test results are due to prohibited substances being added to supplements. A study by the International Olympic Committee found that 15 per cent of 600 supplements tested had steroids or related compounds added that were not listed on the label. It is well known that illegal adulteration of dietary supplements, as well as herbal medicines, have occurred by obscure companies who dogged regulations and it is distressing for the majority of companies who do follow due process and for the athletes that are caught by the fraudulent behaviour of such companies.
You need to be sure that a product you use is from a reputable company and contains only what it says on the label and nothing else. With regard to herbal products, this is why registered herbalists exercise so much caution in sourcing their medicinal plants. The best herbal companies know their suppliers and each batch will undergo a variety of steps to confirm the source material. Do your research and don't be afraid to ask questions before deciding on a particular brand or product.
The risks of ingesting prohibited ingredients also decrease when plants are used in their original form, such as using crude herbs as medicinal tea or adding anti-inflammatory herbs and spices daily to your food. You get what you see! The herb Nettle for example, has proven anti-inflammatory action and can help with the removal of water soluble waste and uric acid from the tissues. Many athletes report that muscle pain reduces and recovery is hastened by regularly consuming Nettle tea, particularly post-workouts. Arnica and Comfrey are traditionally used both externally and internally to reduce inflammation, pain and tissue recovery, and their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects have been confirmed as equivalent in clinical trials when compared with ibuprofen or Diclofenac (or branded as Voltaren).
