Herb-Drug Interactions Summary

Herb-Drug Interactions Summary

• Ginkgo Biloba: Flavonoids in Ginkgo can be dangerous for those taking anticoagulants. Natural remedies aren't always safer or less expensive than prescription medications; some have similar active chemical strength. Allergic reactions can occur with natural products, and they may not have fewer side effects. Ginkgo may reduce the need for some prescription drugs.

Ginkgo Biloba (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Increases blood flow and memory, but decreases blood pressure. Increases the risk of serotonin syndrome with tricyclic antidepressants. Increases the effects of anticoagulants and decreases insulin levels in diabetics.

Ginseng (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Decreases blood sugar, stress, blood pressure, and sexual function, but increases energy levels. Interactions with insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents can be increased with CNS depressants and anticoagulants. Morphine interactions are decreased.

Black Licorice (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Regulates hormones, decreasing stress and influencing fat. Large doses (greater than four weeks) may cause headaches, increased blood pressure, and reduced potassium (dangerous). Can increase the effect of digitalis, aspirin, steroids and exacerbate potassium depletion from laxatives.

Ginger (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Decreases nausea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), stomach issues, and inflammation. Increases the effect of anticoagulants.

Feverfew (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Decreases fever, inflammation, migraines/dizziness, nausea/vomiting, tinnitus, and blood pressure. Increases the effects of anticoagulants and NSAIDs.

Garlic (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Thins the blood. Increases the effect of anticoagulants and boosts immunity; decreases cholesterol levels.

Valerian (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Reduces anxiety and blood pressure; decreases sleep disorders. Increases the effects of CNS depressants (benzodiazepines, barbiturates, anticonvulsants, and sedatives).

Kava Kava (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Decreases stress/anxiety and convulsions, relaxes muscles, and helps with sleeping problems. Increases the effects of CNS depressants and Adderall, and 5-HTPs.

St. John's Wort (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Decreases depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Increases the effect of appetite and CNS depressants.

Melatonin (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Decreases insomnia and the antidepressant effects of desipramine and fluoxetine (Prozac). Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) may decrease melatonin levels.

Saw Palmetto (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Decreases benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), urinary retention, nocturia, and assists in initiating urination. Decreases iron absorption and oral contraceptive effectiveness. Has hormone-like effects, so avoid during pregnancy, lactation, and in hormone-sensitive cancers. Avoid with finasteride (Proscar) as they have similar effects.

Turmeric (Specific Interactions)

• Effects: Decreases inflammation, tumors, infections, and stomach issues. Enhances effect of anticoagulants. Decreases PPIs and H2 blockers, which results in increased stomach acid.

This quiz explores the interactions between herbs like Ginkgo Biloba and Ginseng with various medications. It highlights the potential risks and effects on blood pressure, blood sugar, and more. Understanding these interactions is crucial for safe herbal remedy usage.