Herbal treatment in Germany: health insurance coverage and reimbursement rules
Does German insurance cover herbal remedies? When do you pay yourself? Are there exceptions?
First: What does “herbal treatment” mean?
It refers to using plant-based medicinal products (Pflanzliche Arzneimittel) to treat or relieve health symptoms. It is also known as phytotherapy or naturopathy (Naturheilkunde).
How statutory health insurance (GKV – statutory health insurance) views herbal treatment
| Situation | Covered by insurance? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Herbal treatment prescribed by a doctor (prescription-only phytotherapy) | ✅ sometimes, very rarely | Only if it is approved as a medicinal product with recognized effectiveness, often for children or special medical situations |
| Herbal products without a prescription (over-the-counter, OTC) | ❌ no | Often treated as self-pay services |
| Plant-based dietary supplements | ❌ no | Examples: ginkgo, turmeric, ginger are usually not reimbursed |
| Alternative methods (homeopathy, Schüßler salts) | ❌ mostly no | Exceptions may exist with certain insurers or through special programs |
Reimbursement requirements (if available)
The prescription must be issued by a recognized physician.
The product must be registered as a medicine (Arzneimittel), not as a dietary supplement.
With some insurers such as TK, BKK, or IKK:
Enrollment in additional programs may be required.
Submit the receipt and the prescription.
Partial reimbursement may reach 80 percent, with an annual maximum limit (such as 100 euros).
Private health insurance (PKV) is often more flexible
Private plans may cover:
herbal treatments
naturopathic sessions
visits to Heilpraktiker
But it depends on the specific tariff and contract terms.
Commonly used herbal remedies
| Plant | Common use |
|---|---|
| valerian (Baldrian) | anxiety and sleep |
| St John’s wort (Johanniskraut) | mild depression |
| chamomile (Kamille) | stomach and skin inflammation |
| ginkgo biloba | circulation and memory |
| sage (Salbei) | sore throat and sweating |
| nettle (Brennnessel) | joint issues and fluid retention |
Are there fully covered alternatives?
Yes. Some plant-derived medicines with proven effectiveness may be covered by insurance prescriptions, especially for children or after surgery, such as:
Sinupret® (sinus issues)
Iberogast® (stomach complaints)
Summary
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does statutory insurance cover herbal treatment? | ❌ usually not |
| Does private insurance cover it? | ✅ often, depending on the plan |
| Is partial reimbursement possible? | ✅ in specific cases, with conditions |
| Do herbs replace seeing a doctor? | ❌ no, medical advice is recommended |
The editorial team aims to provide accurate information through extensive research; however, errors or unconfirmed details may occur. Please treat this as initial guidance and consult the responsible authorities for confirmed information.
