Herb/Drug Interactions and Particular Health Problems

There has been concern recently about the possibility of some herbs increasing or decreasing the effects of orthodox medication. Although this concern must be taken seriously, it is worth remembering that herbal medicine is, on the whole, a very safe and gentle form of therapy. However, if your health problem is serious or you are taking strong orthodox medicines, it may be advisable for you to seek professional treatment with a medical herbalist.

Each herb in our product list has information given about particular herb/drug interactions. However, there are particular health problems and certain orthodox drugs which necessitate particular care. Please note that these lists are not intended to be exhaustive. You are always advised to seek professional guidance if you are unsure. There is also a website specialising in herb/drug interactions which you may find useful at The Natural Pharmacist. Many professional herbalists will use their own discretion when prescribing herbs, as they are able to thoroughly assess and monitor their patients.

Orthodox Medicines to be particularly careful with:

Anti-coagulant therapy such as warfarin. A number of herbs can interact with these drugs if taken in high enough doses. Do seek advice if you are taking warfarin.

Cardio active glycosides such as digoxin. A few herbs contain cardio active glycosides themselves which could increase the effects on the orthodox medication. However, these herbs, such as figwort, squill and pleurisy root, are less commonly used. Anyone with a serious heart condition should seek treatment with a qualified herbalist in conjunction with their GP.

Immunosuppressant therapy. Medications such as cyclosporine are usually prescribes in serious auto-immune problems, organ transplantation to stop rejection or cancer therapy. St. John's Wort and Echinacea should certainly be avoided. Again, seek advice.

Epilepsy medication could possibly be affected by a small number of herbs and St. John's Wort should certainly be avoided. Hyssop and sage are also best avoided.

Sleeping tablets. The effects of sleeping tablets may be increased by sedative herbs such as valerian. In general, avoid taking sleeping tablets with any herbal sleeping remedy.

Anti-depressants. SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants may interact with St. John's Wort.

Steroids. Many herbs can be helpful in reducing the side effects of long-term steroid use.

However, such treatment is best carried out by a medical herbalist. Liquorice should definitely be avoided by people taking steroids unless under practitioner supervision.

HRT and the contraceptive pill. There are a few herbs which could, theoretically, increase the effects of synthetic hormones in susceptible women. In particular, seek advice if you wish to take Vitex, Wild yam, Hops, Sage, Liquorice, Red clover, Black cohosh, and the Ginsengs.

Health Problems to take Particular Care with:

Diabetes. Many herbs can lower blood sugar levels so do keep a close eye on your blood sugar readings when taking herbal medicines to avoid the possibility of a hypoglycaemic reaction.

Heart problems. Many herbs can help to reduce blood pressure and have a calming effect on the heart, which is good in most cases. However, in heart failure this is not a desirable result, so always seek advice. Heart problems are best treated by a qualified herbalist in conjunction with your doctor.

Kidney problems. These are always best treated by a qualified herbalist in conjunction with your doctor.

Glaucoma and other eye problems. Eye problems are not in general amenable to self-help. Always seek advice.

Cancer. People living with cancer can improve their general health and well-being tremendously through the use of herbs, diet and other therapies. However, no complementary product or practitioner can legally claim to treat or cure cancer.

Pneumonia. This is a notifiable condition and merits immediate medical attention.

Tuberculosis. Another notifiable illness, again requiring immediate medical treatment.

Sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhoea, HIV and chlamydia. These infections are all notifiable and should be treated immediately to reduce the risk of infertility.

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