Valerian Cautions

Valerian has been a sleepytime wonder for many who have sleep difficulties and it is extremely helpful in treating anxiety as well. But because it does provide an extra dose of sleep-inducing properties, it should NOT be used in combination with Valium, Xanax, or Elavil. Many anti-allergy drugs like Benadryl or Vistaril should also NOT be used in combination with Valerian due to the fact they also induce drowsiness and deep sleep.

Oil Of Primrose & Seizure Risks

Evening Oil of Primrose is a wonderful anti-inflammatory and has been proven to be very effective in treating skin conditions, PMS and even rheumatoid arthritis. There are some drugs, however, that should NEVER be mixed with Evening Oil of Primrose due to the risk of seizures. These include phenothiazine drugs such as Mellaril, Stelazine or Thorazine. This remedy should also NOT be mixed with antidepressants like Wellbutrin, due to increased seizure risk.

Licorice & Drug Interaction Dangers

Licorice can be a wonderful herb for many ailments, especially due to its healing effect on mucous membranes BUT you should avoid licorice if you are taking Digitalis, Thiazide any or loop diuretics. Because of its aldosterone-like effects, whole licorice can cause fluid retention, high blood pressure and potassium loss when 3 grams daily are taken for more than 6 weeks. Licorice can cause significant problems if you suffer from heart or kidney disease or diabetes or hypertension.

Using Feverfew With Caution

Feverfew is one of the best known herbs when it comes to combating migraine problems. If you have surgery planned, however, it is imperative that you avoid taking feverfew directly before or immediately after surgery. This is because feverfew can cause serious bleeding problems.

Herb Dangers & Anesthesia

The American Society of Anesthesiologists recommend that patients discontinue the use of ALL herbs at least 2 weeks before surgery. Do NOT hide your herbal intake from your doctor because serious complications can arise when anesthesia is given to someone who takes herbs. Problems can include increased bleeding and dangerous fluctuations in blood pressure, plus delayed waking. Be honest so you can be kept safe.

Saw Palmetto & Proscar - Not A Safe Combo

Saw Palmetto should NOT be taken with Proscar due to the fact that they are so similar. It could result in an overdose, so avoid mixing these two remedies when treating prostate problems.

Goldenseal Cautions

Goldenseal is a wonderfully effective herb for treating conditions that need attention from antibiotic sources. It´s used frequently to treat strep, sinus infections and other problems usually associated with colds and flus. It is VERY important, however, to avoid taking goldenseal with any anti-clotting drug such as, Coumadin or Heparin, because there is a risk that the effectiveness of these medications may be decreased.

St. John´s wort and the Sun Don´t Mix

St. John´s wort can help improve your mood but make sure you take extra care to protect your skin if you are taking this herb. This sun-sensitivity can be increased even more if you are taking prescriptions drugs like antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications. If you have to be in the sun make sure to apply SPF 30 sun block and add a sun hat or umbrella for extra protection.

Things To Know Before Using Ginseng

Ginseng is one of the best known herbs for its power to increase energy and to boost stamina. It´s important to know, however, that ginseng may also thin the blood. You should avoid taking ginseng if you are currently taking ANY heart, blood pressure or diabetes medications, because the possibility of complications is high. Ginseng should also be avoided if you are taking any MAO inhibitor because it can result in mania. If you are a coffee drinker or consume caffeine in any manner, you should also be aware that mixing ginseng with caffeine can cause irritability.

Vitamins and Herbs Used to Help Treat Multiple Sclerosis

There are alternative ways to treat the symptoms of Multiple sclerosis. MS (Multiple sclerosis) is a nerve disorder that often strikes young adults, but may also occur in adults in their 30's and 40's. It progressively damages nerves in the brain and spinal cord and leads to difficulty walking, seeing, moving, and eventually results in paralysis. Below is a list of vitamins and minerals that help slow this process and help with the associated symptoms of MS.

Vitamin C and E: Powerful antioxidant capabilities

Vitamin B12, folic acid, Vitamin B Complex: Maintain nerve function and structure.

NAC (N-acetylcysteine): An antioxidant that protects nerve cells.

Flaxseed oil and evening primrose oil: Build healthy nerves and reduce inflammation.

Ginkgo biloba: Improves blood flow to help with mobility and muscle function.

Licorice & Potassium Levels - A Dangerous Combo

Licorice is wonderful for respiratory problems and colds, but it does deplete potassium levels in your body. If potassium levels sink too low, this could result in the risk of heart rhythm irregularities, particularly if you are taking Lanoxin, a heart medication. Other drugs that DO NOT mix well with licorice include diuretics like Lasix, Hygroton, Lozol or Bumex. These meds all can affect potassium levels, so mixing them with this herb can cause serious problems.

Herbs & Elevated Blood Sugar Dangers

If you are a diabetic,it is crucial that you consult with your doctor PRIOR to taking any herbs. That´s because herbs can affect your blood sugar levels as well as interact badly with diabetes medications. Problems that can result include erratic behavior, dizziness, confusion, fainting and even coma.

Using Caution With Licorice & Thyroid Or Blood Pressure Meds

Licorice can reduce thyroid gland activity, so it may alter the required dose of thyroid-stabilizing drugs like Synthroid, Levothroid and Levoxyl. Check with your doctor if you are taking these drugs before using any herbal remedy containing licorice. Also, do NOT mix licorice and blood pressure meds like Adalat, Vasotec or Minizide. The effects of these drugs are in danger of being lessened.

Investigating Ephedra

Ephedra (Ma Huang) has been effective in treating bronchial, nasal, and weight conditions since the 1920s, but over the years, a number of deaths have been attributed to its use. In 1997, the FDA introduced restrictions on the sale of products containing more than 8 mg of ephedra per dose, limiting daily intake to no more than 25 mg.

The risk comes from ephedra´s (also ephedrine´s) effects of increasing blood pressure, causing heart palpitations, nervousness, dizziness, insomnia and headache. People who have high blood pressure, prostate problems, glaucoma heart problems, diabetes, thyroid disease, or are taking medication for asthma should NOT use ephedra.

Ginseng Guidelines

Ginseng interactions may occur with the following drugs: Zoloft - could cause sexual disfunction - also DO NOT mix with 5-HTP or St. John´s wort; Maxzide - could interfere with potassium retention and could have adverse reactions if mixed with Coenzyme Q10, arginine, white willow, magnesium, zinc or licorice.
Orth-est can interact unfavorably with folate, iproflavone, boron, androstenedione and chasteberry.
Other possible interactions include mixing with drugs processed by an enzyme called "CYP3A4" - and any MAO inhibitors, Digitalis, insulin or hypoglycemics, Coumadin or warfarin.
Check with your doctor or pharmacist to be safe.

Herbs To Avoid

Just because an herb grows naturally does not mean it is safe to consume. Trained herbalists and natural health practitioners can offer guidelines on certain herbs that have the risk of danger if used incorrectly, but it is best avoid coltsfoot, sassafras, germander, comfrey and chaparral. These herbs have natural toxic properties. Seek professional guidance.

Ginko & What NOT To Mix

Ginko biloba has earned high marks from the Journal of American Medical Association for its remarkable powers in alleviating symptoms associated with memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer´s disease. There have been bleeding dangers reported, however, for individuals who also take aspirin, Coumadin or Ticlid. A warning has also been issued for patients who take MAO inhibitors, Nardil or Parnate. Always check with your physician before taking ANY herb if you are currently taking other medications.

St. John´s wort and Prescription Meds Dangers

St. John´s wort works wonders for many folks battling depression but it can wreak dangerous havoc with other prescription medication, especially immunosuppressants, protease inhibitors (usually taken by HIV positive patients) and some birth control pills. Check with your doctor to make sure you´re not playing with herbal fire.

HRT and Boron - Not a Good Combo

Boron, also known as boron chelate or sodium borate, is often used as a treatment for osteoporosis and arthritis. It assists in the proper absorption of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus for stronger bones. It´s important to know if you are receiving Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), the use of boron is not advised, due to the possibility of elevating estrogen levels excessively. Elevated estrogen may increase the risk of breast & uterine cancer in women past menopause. For those on HRT, it´s best to supplement boron from leafy veggies, raisins, prunes, nuts, non-citrus fruits & grains.