NURS8118N Herbs, Nutraceuticals and Supplements for Advanced Practice Nursing III

Advanced practice nurses must be well-versed in the administration of nutrients, nutraceuticals, and botanicals to patients. This article looks at a variety of herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements that advanced practice nurses might provide to their patients.

Introduction

The use of complementary treatments such as herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements has gained in popularity in recent years. Consumers are gravitating to these treatments because they have a natural history and are considered to have fewer side effects than traditional medicine. Advanced practice nurses are possibly able to assist patients with the use of these alternative treatments. This page discusses the numerous herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements that advanced practice nurses may give to their patients.

Herbs

Herbs have been used for medicinal reasons for decades. Patients regularly resort to herbs for treatment from minor diseases such as migraines, colds, and stomach disorders. Advanced practice nurses should be familiar with the most common herbs and their uses.

Echinacea

Herbs have been used for medicinal reasons for decades. Patients regularly resort to herbs for treatment from minor diseases such as migraines, colds, and stomach disorders. Advanced practice nurses should be familiar with the most common herbs and their uses.

Ginger

Ginger is a popular herb for treating nausea and vomiting. It’s also been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory qualities, which might help with arthritis therapy. Patients suffering from vomiting and nausea as a result of chemotherapy or pregnancy can be given ginger by advanced practice nurses.

St. John’s Wort

The herb St. John’s Wort has been found to have antidepressant effects. It is frequently used for the treatment of mild to severe depression. St. John’s Wort should be used with caution by advanced practice nurses since it can interact with several prescription drugs.

Nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals are diets or foodstuffs with therapeutic effects. They are frequently utilized for medical purposes or prevent illness.

Probiotics

Probiotics are living microorganisms that have been shown to benefit intestinal health. They are typically present in fermented foods such as yogurt. Probiotics can be recommended by advanced practice nurses to patients who have digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are important fatty acids. They have been demonstrated to provide a variety of health advantages, including inflammation reduction and improved heart health. Advanced practice nurses may recommend patients with high cholesterol levels or heart disease to take omega-3 fatty acids.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is necessary for bone health. It can be obtained in sunshine and fortified foods like milk and cereal. Vitamin D supplements might be recommended by advanced practice nurses to patients who are weak in this vitamin.

Supplements

Supplements are oral preparations that contain a number of nutritional components. They are frequently used for medical purposes or avoid illness.

Calcium

Calcium is necessary for bone health. It may be present in dairy products as well as leafy green vegetables. Calcium supplements can be recommended by advanced practice nurses to patients who have an increased risk of acquiring osteoporosis.

Iron

Iron is required for the formation of red blood cells. It may be found in a variety of foods, including meat and green leafy vegetables. Iron supplements can be recommended by advanced practice nurses to anemic patients.

Magnesium

Iron is necessary for red blood cell production. It may be present in many different meals, especially meats and green leafy veggies. Advanced practice nurses can recommend iron supplements to anemic patients.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a sleep-regulating hormone. It is often used to treat sleep disorders and jet lag. Melatonin supplements can be recommended by advanced practice nurses to patients who have sleep difficulties.

Protein

Protein is required for muscle development and repair. It’s widespread in dairy products, meat, and foods made from plants like beans and nuts. Protein supplements might be recommended by advanced practice nurses to patients who do not acquire sufficient protein from their diet.

Conclusion

Patients are increasingly interested in herbal remedies, nutraceuticals, and supplements. Advanced practice nurses ought to possess a wide awareness of the various products and their applications. Advanced practice nurses may enhance patient results and standard of life by proposing these alternative treatments to patients.

FAQs

Is it safe for patients to consume herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements?

The herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements are typically safe to use. Patients should, however, always consult with their healthcare professional before trying any new products.

Herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements: Can they interfere with prescription medications?

Yes, several botanicals, nutraceuticals, and supplements have been shown to interact with prescription drugs. Before using any new products, patients should always consult with their healthcare professional.

Is the FDA in charge of regulating herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements? The FDA does not regulate herbs and nutraceuticals in the same manner that prescription drugs are. The FDA, on the other hand, regulates supplements.

How long do herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements take to work?

The period of time required for herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements to work properly varies according to the product and the patient’s specific needs.

Is insurance covering herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements?

Herbs, nutraceuticals, and supplements aren’t often covered by insurance. Some insurance plans, however, may cover specific goods if they have been recommended by a healthcare practitioner.