UN health agency issues guidelines on safety of alternative medicines

The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) today announced the publication of guidelines aimed at helping countries and consumers navigate the largely unregulated world of alternative medicines.

Up to 80 per cent of all people in the developing world rely on traditional medicine for their primary health care, according to WHO. In wealthy countries, many people seek out various types of natural remedies on the assumption that natural means safe. But reports of adverse reactions to these treatments are on the rise.

"WHO supports traditional and alternative medicines when these have demonstrated benefits for the patient and minimal risks," WHO Director-General Dr. Lee Jong-wook said. "But as more people use these medicines, governments should have the tools to ensure all stakeholders have the best information about their benefits and their risks."

The guidelines provide simple, easy to follow tips on issues to look out for and a brief checklist of basic questions which may be used to help facilitate proper use of traditional and alternative medicine.

Advice is provided to government authorities on preparing easy-to-access information and on working with the mass media to sensitize and educate the population. In addition, suggestions are given for several health system structures and processes needed to promote proper use of traditional and alternative medicines.