How Herbal Supplements Can Interfere with Medications, According to Experts
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How Herbal Supplements Can Interfere with Medications, According to Experts
What Are Herbal Supplements?
Herbal supplements are made from whole plants or parts of plants, such as leaves, roots, seeds, or flowers. While they are often considered "natural" alternatives, they can still have potent biological effects. Some herbs contain compounds that can interact with the same bodily pathways as prescription and over-the-counter drugs, leading to unintended interactions.
How Herbal Supplements Can Interfere with Medications
When adding herbal supplements to your diet, it’s crucial to understand how they can interact with your medications. We asked dietitians for their expert input on four common herbal supplements and their role in drug interaction.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a common herbal supplement that can interfere with a number of medications. It contains a bioactive compound called curcumin, which is recognized for its anti-inflammatory and brain health benefits. However, high doses of turmeric can slow down the liver’s enzymes, which can lead to increased blood sugar levels and a decreased effectiveness of certain medications. Additionally, turmeric can thin the blood, increasing the risk of bleeding complications when taken with anticoagulants like warfarin.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is another herbal supplement that can interact with medications. While a small amount of cinnamon in your diet is usually fine, high doses or supplements can have a more noticeable effect. Cinnamon contains a compound called coumarin, which can thin the blood and interact with liver enzymes. This can lead to increased risk of bleeding complications when taken with anticoagulants like warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel. Additionally, cinnamon can affect the liver’s ability to process medications like statins and acetaminophen.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is an herbal supplement that has been touted for its use in depression and wound healing. However, it can also interact with a number of medications, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), blood thinners, and immunosuppressants. St. John’s Wort can cause serotonin syndrome, a serious condition resulting from excessive serotonin levels, when combined with SSRIs. Additionally, it can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills and increase the risk of bleeding complications when taken with anticoagulants.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an herbal supplement that is often used to support immune function. However, it can also interact with medications, particularly immunosuppressants. Echinacea can stimulate the immune system, which can counteract the intended effects of immunosuppressants. This can lead to a increased risk of organ rejection in transplant patients.
Tips for Including Herbal Supplements in a Healthy Way
To ensure that you benefit from herbal supplements without compromising your health, follow these key guidelines:
- Consult a healthcare provider: Phillips advises that it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. They can help determine the right dosage and assess potential risks or interactions.
- Choose third-party tested products: Phillips recommends choosing products from a reputable brand and purchasing from a trusted vendor. Look for products with a third-party certification on their label.
- Consider timing: Some supplements may be best taken with food, while others might be more effective on an empty stomach. Follow specific instructions for optimal absorption and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Some herbal supplements can interact with how your body processes prescription and over-the-counter medications, leading to potential side effects or reduced drug efficacy. To navigate these interactions safely, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. Choosing high-quality, third-party tested products and paying attention to timing and dosage will also help ensure that you reap the benefits of herbal supplements without compromising your health.
FAQs
Q: Can I take herbal supplements with my prescription medications?
A: It depends on the herbal supplement and your prescription medications. Some herbal supplements can interact with prescription medications, leading to potential side effects or reduced effectiveness. Consult with your healthcare provider before taking any new supplement.
Q: How do I choose a high-quality herbal supplement?
A: Look for products from reputable brands and purchase from trusted vendors. Choose products with a third-party certification on their label, such as USP, Consumer Lab, or NSF.
Q: Can I take herbal supplements if I’m taking immunosuppressants?
A: No, it’s not recommended. Herbal supplements like echinacea can stimulate the immune system, which can counteract the intended effects of immunosuppressants. Consult with your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplement.
Q: What are some common herbal supplements that can interact with medications?
A: Some common herbal supplements that can interact with medications include turmeric, cinnamon, St. John’s Wort, and echinacea.
Q: Can I take herbal supplements with food or on an empty stomach?
A: Some supplements may be best taken with food, while others might be more effective on an empty stomach. Follow specific instructions for optimal absorption and effectiveness.
