Morina Gael It’s like wandering down the supplement aisle in a maze of promises and leafy labels. Although we tend to think of natural products as harmless, there are some herbs that can interact in a surprising way with traditional medicines, says the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Balancing the old with the new and the safe may aid your wellness journey with understanding.
“Natural” Does Not Mean “Risk-Free”
A remedy derived from the Earth is not necessarily safe and effective. Some plants have potent compounds that could lead to some side effects when taken in high amounts.
Herbal Meds and Prescription Drugs
According to a study in The Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, St. John’s wort may also interfere with how your liver works, which can make certain life-saving drugs less effective.
Liver Health and Specific Supplements
According to the Mayo Clinic, consuming high doses of kava or comfrey could be associated with liver stress. These herbs may need a certain degree of supervision from a professional.
Quality Varies Between Brands
Dietary supplements are not necessarily regulated by the Food and Drug Administration for purity prior to sale. Dietary supplements are not always tightly regulated before they are placed on the shelves. Fillers or contaminants may not be included in the product labeling.
Potency of Essential Oils
Oils can be strong and irritate or cause allergies if not diluted. Experts say that the “less is more” principle may be able to help avoid excessive sensitivity or respiratory problems.
The Truth About Detox Teas
There are a number of detox drinks with senna, which is a natural laxative. However, some digestion health studies in the medical literature suggest that it could create a dependency or electrolyte imbalance if taken for long periods of time.
Supplements Before Surgery
Studies show that garlic or ginkgo biloba may act as a blood thinner. Doctors will sometimes recommend one week prior to such procedures to stop these, hoping to reduce the risk of bleeding.
Allergic Reactions Are Possible
Some plants that have a close relationship with ragweed are chamomile. Seasonal allergies may also make some floral teas a problem, such as causing hives or sneezing.
Interaction With Blood Pressure
Herbs such as licorice root can actually help the body to hold onto sodium and may have the opposite effect. This may contribute to a brief increase in blood pressure and may be a problem for people who suffer from hypertension.
Consulting Your Healthcare Provider
Transparency is the best means of staying safe. Telling a doctor about your list of supplements could help prevent unwanted interactions and help create a natural treatment plan that is effective.
