At what level does a herbal extract become a drug?

Question

We use plant extracts in massage oils and prior to the combining of these for use they look like something that may come off of a street corner. And should i worry about this at all since its all bought with my tax id number and is going toward a legal purpose.

Answer 1

Many herbs act like medicines. Many medicines are derived from herbs. Some herbs can kill you. It's a mixed up business.

The main difference between herbs and medicines is that medicines will isolate only the chemical aspect of the herb that they believe does the job, whereas with the herbal extract, you're getting it all. This can be good because there may be some other aspect of the plant that is necessary to appropriate absorption or use of the desired aspect.

I work at a health clinic and our directer (an MD) says "if you are taking herbs, you are taking medicine, don't fool yourself." From a medical perspective, I think that does make sense. For myself, I rely mostly on herbs, and mostly to create health, not to cure.

Answer 2

An herbal extract becomes a drug when a big pharmaceutical company buys all the herb plants and seeds and patents them so they can sell it to you for $50 a pop.

Answer 3

According to US laws, no one can Patent something that grows naturally such as a plant or herb. So, an herbal extract can not become a drug. The pharmaceutical industry has their senators and congressmen keep alternative medicine heavily regulated so that natural remedies can not be used. Thank your local senator and congressman for accepting kickbacks and free stuff from the pharmaceutical industry to keep the alternative health community down.

Answer 4

By law, ANYTHING that is used to treat a disease is a drug, and falls under the jurisdiction of the FDA. It is not determined by the potency or concentration, but by the use. Really. Best of luck.

Answer 5

Health Advisor is correct...you can not get a patent for a herb, at least not in the US.