Hidden Dangers of Herbal Medicines

Hidden Dangers of Herbal Medicines - Experts from Leeds University's School of Pharmacy UK recently warned the threat behind the consumption of herbal medicines. They pointed out that consumption of herbal medicines can cause serious health problems. Because most herbal medicines are sold in the market do not put a security warning such as date of expiry and side effects.

In their study, they surveyed the five types of herbal medicine the most popular of which, St John's wort, giseng Asia, echinacea, garlic and gingko. According to researchers, there are still many consumers who never knew what the side effects from use of these herbal medicines.

St. John's wort, for example, which has been used to overcome to overcome bad mood. This herb was found to reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill. While ginkgo, which is said to improve blood circulation, increase alertness, and as blood thinners, it should not be combined with other drugs.

Asian ginseng, which is often used to boost the immune system, and echinacea is often used to protect yourself from the flu, also has a hidden danger. Garlic, which is used to lower high blood pressure, can be dangerous if consumed in large quantities.

The researchers also conducted a survey of 68 herbal products sold in the market and found 51 of them (75 percent) do not contain information on precautions, drug interactions or side effects. Seventy percent of these products (48 of 68 products) marketed as a dietary supplement.

Researchers suspect, at least herbal products that includes label information can be caused by herbal shops have so far been permitted to continue to sell old stock, without warning, and expiration date.

Professor Theo Raynor, who led the study says: The best advice for consumers is that they have to be careful. Any substance that affects the body has the potential to damage if not used properly, "he said.

Raynor suggests, it is important for consumers to look for herbal medicines that already have a license, which means the drug has been approved by the government. "You should tell your doctor if you are taking herbal medicines. This is the mean so that you get the best care," he added.