Can drinking 'bush teas' as treatment harm my health

Dear Anthea,
I notice that you have a team of herbalists speaking on herbs, plants, but I’ve heard that bush tea is dangerous. What information do you have on this?
Chloe

Dear Chloe,
Thanks for writing to this site. With reference to discussions with researchers and educators on the topic, such as with Mr Oneil Thomas, trainer with the Tourism Development Product Company Limited.

First of all, what Jamaicans call bush for bush tea, is really our slang for ‘plants and herbs’ collectively.

When parts of plants are boiled they produce toxins, and therefore must not be taken for long periods without breaks, or without proper direction. Overuse or taking too much can cause damage to your liver. Your liver can get hardened.

When commercially processed to convert to prescribed medication, such toxins are removed. Remember that herbalists speak based on their study of plants, herbs (commonly referred to as ‘bush’ in Jamaica), as herbologists but mostly aren’t trained as medical doctors. Herbalists usually recommend a break from natural intakes after a 7-14 day period generally, although this advice not usually followed.

OUr tourists are well apreciated, as much as they appreciate our natural resources, but one must tread cautiously when introducing them to our trsditions of drinking ‘bush’ teas as treatment and cures.

All the best!!!

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jamaicaherbalist: .... a team of herbalist with experience in Jamaican herbology and proven record of their recommended cures using plants, herbs, fruits naturally grown in Jamaica. They are not necessarily trained medical doctors and recommend that consultation be had especially if prescribed medication. Click here to contact me. ...or email me here