Plants are the origin of many modern medicines, and herbal remedies are widely used. But a remedy strong enough to have an effect is also strong enough to cause side effects or interact with other medicines. "Natural" is not the same as "safe".
Known interactions
- St John's wort can make many medicines less effective, including some contraceptives, heart medicines and blood thinners, and can interact dangerously with some antidepressants.
- Ginkgo, garlic supplements and concentrated ginger or turmeric may increase the risk of bleeding with blood-thinning medicines.
- Liquorice root taken regularly can raise blood pressure and lower potassium.
These are only examples. Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about any herbs or supplements you take.
Who should be especially careful
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women.
- Children and older adults.
- People taking regular medicines, especially blood thinners, heart, diabetes or psychiatric medicines.
- People with liver or kidney disease.
- Anyone due to have surgery — some herbs need to be stopped beforehand.
Using herbal products more safely
- Buy packaged products from pharmacies or licensed sellers; registered products in Iran carry an Iran Food and Drug Administration code.
- Follow the dose on the label, and don't combine several products with similar effects.
- Stop and seek advice if you notice side effects such as rash, stomach upset, palpitations or yellowing of the skin.
- Never stop a prescribed medicine in favour of a herbal remedy without talking to your doctor.
Where they fit
Herbal teas and traditional remedies can be part of self-care for minor complaints. For anything serious, persistent or worsening, see a doctor.
Tools for this
If you think someone has taken too much of a herbal product or medicine, call 115 or the medicine and poison information line 1490. This guide is general information, not medical advice — see our safety note.