Common Herbal Side Effects

On yesterdays note I feel like I should further point out that herbs by themselves also have risks. While they may not be as common as pharmaceuticals, which is the main purpose many turn to herbal medicine, they still have their own side effects and dangers that should be mentioned and noted while you are doing your own research before taking a particular herb.

The biggest point I cannot stress enough is to look into an herb before taking it yourself, or go ask a professional for help and advice on what herbs might be best for you. Read the news and get the scoop on the herbs that may have more or less research to back them up.

It is important to note that anyone can have an allergic reaction to any herb. So if you have allergic reactions to plants such as ragweed, you may not want to take herbs like Echinacea or Chamomile as these may excite an allergic reaction.

I have compiled a short list of just some herbs with side effects to look out for. I've tried to include more commonly used herbs:

Ginkgo - As mentioned before Ginkgo can increase the risk of bleeding, so it is not good to take before surgery, if you have problems with blood not clotting, or diabetes.

St. John's Wort - Along with it's many drug interactions it also can cause increased depression and anxiety in some people, as well as sensitivity to light, fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, and confusion. So this might not be a good alternative for many people.

Comfrey - Comfrey is meant to be used topically, however it can be taken orally, when done so however, it increases the risk for liver damage, and some studies suggest even cancer.

Licorice - Licorice root is a very popular herb, used for a long list of medical problems, as well as a flavoring for candy, soda, and other sweets. However in large dosages or to even certain people it can cause seemingly just as many health problems, including arrhythmia and hypertension.

Aloe vera - Yes, even one of the most used herbs has side effects. Besides the possibility of contact dermatitis when used topically. It is believed to cause problems when taken internally and it is often not advised as it has the potential to cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and it is believed to even have the potential to cause cancer.

Yohimbe - Often used for Impotence and Erectile dysfunction, it has a tendency to really get blood pumping. This is not always a good thing considering it has been suggested it causes rapid heart rate, hypertension and hypotension, various heart problems, and yes, even death.

Herbs can be dangerous if not taken properly which is why dosage is also very important. Many of these side effects are due to high dosages.

It is best to start out with the absolute smallest dosage and see how it works for you. If there is the potential for allergic reaction start with a very small amount, such as a single capsule, a small bit of ointment/cream on the skin and wait for 24 hours to make sure you don't have any kind of reaction. It might even be better to avoid herbs you can potentially have a reaction with altogether.

Just remember to be safe, use in increments in the beginning, and proper dosage is always important!

~Lindsey Shemwell (The Budding Botanist)