Folk Medicine
Words of Encouragement
For all mothers, we want to let you know that whether or not you use folk medicine, your choice is valid. Your choice of practicing does not dictate the kind of mother you are. There are many ways to safely practice if you choose to incorporate them within your life. However, we would like to encourage every mother to tell their medical provider of any practices that they are currently doing or are thinking about doing. This page is not intended for medical advice, but rather a safe place to have a discussion about these topics.
We hope that by discussing folk medicine, we can begin to open these conversations outside our families. We have suggested general tips when discussing folk medicine with your provider.
We hope that these tips can help you initiate conversations regarding folk medicine with your doctor!
Tip 1: Write down your questions
It is easy to forget your questions when you are in the doctor’s office. Write down your questions on your phone or piece of paper beforehand and bring your list to your next doctor’s visit.
Tip 2: Bring your medications and folk medicine
To get the most out of your doctor’s visit it is helpful to bring the medications (if any) prescribed by your physician as well as any folk medicine supplements you are taking or planning on taking. Medications can interact with one another in a way that can potentially cause adverse side effects. By bringing your medications and explaining how you think of using folk medicine at the same time, you and your doctor can make the best medical plan for your wellbeing.
Tip 3: Bring your support system
It can be uncomfortable to talk to your doctor about folk medicine. If you can, bring a loved one to your doctor’s visit so that you feel more comfortable sharing your perspective
Tip 4: Don't be afraid to ask questions
If you have any questions regarding how certain medications work -- ask! This is your chance to get clarification, and leave your appointment empowered.
Such questions include: What does this prescribed medication specifically do? How will it interact with another herbal medication I am taking?
Tip 5: Be sure to do your own research
It can be easy to follow advice that worked for someone else, but how do you know it can work for you? Is it beneficial or harmful in the short term and long term? Doing your own research can clarify and better facilitate the conversation between you, friends, family, and a provider. Finding credible sources is an important part of the process.
Tip 6: Know misconception vs. fact
A common misconception of folk medicine for example is that herbal medicine is natural and therefore safe. However, dosage and the potency can play a huge factor when determining if something is safe or not. Your physician can be a credible source for information.
Tip 7: Validation
Folk medicine is any commonly used cultural practice passed through many generations. It can have many beneficial outcomes and should not be treated as a substandard choice to Western medicine. If you choose to incorporate folk medicine practices in your life, that is perfectly valid. We know ourselves and our bodies best.
Tip 8: Beginning that conversation
Apart from conversations with your physician, it is also important to have these conversations with your family and friends. We should respect everyone’s choice and empower one another. We hope that every mother feels encouraged and validated so that more conversations can be started.