HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS
HerbsMedicinal partPrimary uses
Cranberry Berries/juice Prevent urinary tract infection. Keeps
urine acidic to prevent bacterial growth
Saw palmetto Berries Treat benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Prostatic hyperplasia means enlargement of the prostate. shrinking
the prostate to solve urine problems
Milk thistle Seeds Antitoxin, protection against liver
disease
Garlic Bulbs Reduce cholesterol, reduce blood pressure,
anticoagulation. Its part of the 4 Gs herbs that interact with
prescribed anticoagulant (Ginkgo, ginger, geyincin)
Ginkgo Leaves and seeds Improve memory, reduce dizziness.
Decrease the effects of anticonvulsantsIts part of the 4 Gs herbs
that interact with prescribed anticoagulant (Garlic, ginger,
geyincin)
Soy Beans Source of protein, vitamins, and minerals; relief of
menopausal symptoms (bc increase strogen), prevent cardiovascular
disease, anticancer. Suppress function of the thyroid gland
(negative)
EquinaceaEntire plant Enhance immune system, treat the common
coldEchinacea and amiodarone (Cardorone) can lead to
hepatotoxicity.
St. Johns wort Flowers, leaves, stems
Reduce depression, reduce anxiety, anti-inflammatory. interact
with prescribed antidepressant ex Zoloft w/ st. jhons wort the
seratonin levels too much (not good)
Green tea
Leaves
Antioxidant; lower LDL cholesterol; prevent cancer; relieve
stomach problems, reduces nausea and vomiting
Evening Primrose
Oil extracted from seeds Relieve itching of eczema and other
skin conditions. Is used to alleviate postmenopausal symptoms.
Kava kava rizhome Is used to calm anxiety, stress, and
restlessness, and treat sleep problems (insomnia).If is taken with
another antianxiety will stimulate the patient too much.
HERB- DRUG INTERACTION (4 Gs)
HerbInteracts withEffect
Garlic Aspirin and other NSAIDs, warfarin insulin, oral
hypoglycemic agents Increased bleeding risk Additive hypoglycemic
effects
Ginger Aspirin and other NSAIDs, heparin, warfarin Increased
bleeding risk. Ginger is used to treat GI problems like diarrhea,
upset stomach, morning sickness, N+V.
Ginkgo AnticonvulsantsAspirin and NSAIDs Heparin and warfarin
Tricyclic antidepressants Possible decreased anticonvulsant
effectiveness Increased bleeding potential Possible decreased
seizure threshold
Ginseng CNS depressantsDigoxin (Lanoxin)DiureticsInsulin and
oral hypoglycemic agents Warfarin Boost immune systemIncreased
sedation.Increased toxicity.Possible decreased diuretic effects
Increased hypoglycemic effects. Decreased anticoagulant effects
Increased bleeding risk
