Botanical medicine is the effective use of plants to treat disease. The use of plants for healing dates back to the beginnings of civilization and is the foundation for modern pharmacology. While most herbs are largely safe and have few side effects some can have damaging consequences if taken incorrectly. Naturopathic Doctors are highly trained in both the proper use and potential adverse effects of herbal medicines. Under appropriate guidance botanical medicine is a safe and effective method of treating and preventing disease.