Herb and drug interactions: 'Natural' products not always safe

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http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/herbal-supplements/SA00039

Herb and drug interactions: 'Natural' products not

always safe

Herbs have been used to heal the body and mind for

thousands of years. If you're on medication, though,

herbs can sometimes be dangerous. Exercise caution.

You may think herbal supplements are safe because

they're labeled " natural. " But many herbal supplements

contain active ingredients that can harm you if taken

with certain prescription or over-the-counter (OTC)

drugs. Be wary of health food stores and Internet

sites that promote these products.

Which types of medications don't mix well with herbal

supplements?

Be cautious about taking an herbal supplement if

you're currently taking:

Blood pressure medications

Blood thinners (anticoagulants, anti-platelet agents,

nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin,

ibuprofen or naproxen)

Diabetes medications

Drugs that affect the liver

Heart medications

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Which herbal supplements should you avoid if you take

medications?

Examples of herbal supplements that may possibly

produce harmful side effects when used in combination

with certain types of medications include:

Black cohosh

Dong quai

Ephedra

Feverfew

Garlic

Ginger

Ginkgo

Ginseng

Goldenseal

Kava

Milk thistle

Scotch broom

St. 's wort