UNITED KINGDOM, December 30, 2001: The beginning of 2002 may see the United Kingdom government giving the National Health Service stamp of approval on herbal remedies. Backed by the prime minister and his wife as well as thousands of other followers, the government plans to bring herbal remedies and maybe even acupuncture under statutory control. Presently general practitioner’s could prescribe herbal remedies but they very seldom do because of legal responsibility. Under the new regulations, GP’s could refer a patient to an alternative therapist who would prescribe the remedy. Herbalists are somewhat leery about the backing of the NHS as they feel many remedies are cheaper over the counter than by prescription, herbs are readily available now and the controlled regulations may up the price of many herbs.
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