Healthcare professionals in the United Arab Emirates are issuing warnings regarding the dangers of herbal remedies, particularly for elderly patients.

These experts highlight significant health risks associated with these remedies, which are increasingly being shared on social media platforms.

Researchers from the community and public health sectors have expressed concern about the alarming spread of folk remedies that claim to treat numerous ailments.

Dr. Saif Darwish, a community health specialist, emphasizes that many of these remedies feature ingredients that are untested or not medically approved, which can pose serious health dangers, especially for seniors.

He cites dangerous components, such as corticosteroids, which may mask symptoms in the short term but result in long-term harm to vital organs.

Real-life cases illustrate the repercussions of using unverified remedies.

An 80-year-old woman with chronic respiratory allergies reportedly experienced a spike in blood pressure and a rapid decline in health after using a popular treatment involving black seed oil.

This incident necessitated hospitalization for further medical intervention.

In another case, a man purchased a herbal product marketed as a digestive aid online, only to discover it was contaminated and potentially harmful, prompting him to cease its use.

These accounts underline the potential hazards encountered with herbal products that claim to provide natural and effective solutions to health challenges.

Dr. Inas Osman, a family medicine specialist, points out that older adults may turn to folk remedies out of a desire to avoid pharmaceutical treatments due to past experiences, economic factors, or anxieties regarding side effects.

The psychological factor also plays a crucial role, as many seniors are likely to trust remedies that have worked for others in their communities.

However, Dr. Osman warns that while some herbs like ginger, turmeric, and aloe vera may offer benefits, inappropriate dosages can lead to adverse side effects, such as digestive issues or unpredictable blood sugar levels.

She urges individuals to consult healthcare professionals before using these remedies to ensure their safety and efficacy.

Additionally, Dr. Khaled Taha, a cardiology consultant, highlights the risks of potential interactions between herbal remedies and prescribed medications for older patients with chronic illnesses.

Some herbs may interfere with blood-thinning medications or negatively impact liver and kidney functions.

He emphasizes that due to existing health conditions, seniors may face heightened vulnerabilities when consuming unregulated herbal products.

As reliance on herbal remedies continues to grow among older adults, it is critical to ensure knowledge transfer on the safe usage of these treatments.

Promoting education on the distinction between effective and harmful folk remedies is essential to minimize health risks.

Experts encourage older adults and their caregivers to seek reliable medical information rather than relying on anecdotal evidence or social media claims.