Tag: Herb drug interactions

Over 2 million people in India use Garcinia indica, also known as kokum, for its culinary and traditional medicinal properties, but despite its purported benefits, awareness of the side effects of Garcinia indica is crucial for safe consumption. While widely consumed in food and beverages, concentrated supplements carry a higher risk of adverse reactions.

While most people consider turmeric a pantry staple for its culinary uses, it has also been a cornerstone of traditional medicine for centuries. Its growing reputation as a "superfood" has led many to question whether eating it raw is safe and beneficial.

While aniseed is a popular culinary spice, some individuals can experience adverse effects, with some studies showing aniseed can have an estrogen-like effect on the body. This makes it crucial for certain people to know who should not eat aniseed, especially in medicinal doses.

Research has consistently shown that the curcuminoids in turmeric can affect cytochrome P450 enzymes. The cytochrome P450 (CYP) family of enzymes is responsible for metabolizing the majority of all prescription drugs, and interactions with them can have significant clinical implications.

Multiple studies have shown that garlic contains potent compounds that can inhibit platelet aggregation, an important step in blood clotting. However, while this effect suggests that garlic can increase bleeding risk, especially in concentrated supplement form, it is generally considered safe when consumed in moderate dietary amounts for most healthy individuals. The key lies in understanding the difference between culinary use and high-dose supplementation, particularly for those on blood-thinning medication or preparing for surgery.

Ginger has natural anticoagulant properties and can interfere with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding or bruising. This critical interaction means you should never consume ginger if on blood thinners without consulting your healthcare provider first.

While aloe vera is valued for topical uses, oral consumption of certain parts of the plant, especially the latex, may cause significant health problems. Oral consumption has been connected to many side effects, ranging from stomach discomfort to more severe complications involving the kidneys and liver.

While often praised for its purported health benefits, a 2020 review of clinical cases highlighted potential risks, with several reports linking noni juice and tea consumption to liver damage in some individuals. For this reason, it is crucial to understand who should not drink noni tea, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions or specific sensitivities.

A 2022 review highlighted fucoxanthin's potential health benefits, but like any supplement, it can have side effects. Understanding these potential risks is crucial before starting any new supplement, especially for the brown algae carotenoid fucoxanthin.

While celebrated for its antioxidant content and potential to lower blood pressure, hibiscus tea is not without its risks. Certain individuals, such as pregnant women or those on specific medications, need to be cautious with its consumption.