The immense benefits and zero side effects label of herbal supplements are grabbing you towards them. Believing the fact that they are harmless and work wonders on the human body, we consume it without even examining the body conditions. The world exists on both negatives and positives if not there will not be a balance in it. Herbs also can be harmful to you, particularly when you are on medication for other diseases. Seek suggestions from your doctor and then start using the herbs prescribed. Play it safe and harmless.
Tips to consume herbal supplements with safety
Even though you have done all your research and consulted a doctor, it is always better to implement some safety measures to avoid the adverse effects. Here are some of the tips you should follow while consuming herbal supplements:
Stick to the instructions
Follow the advice of a doctor, do not overdo the dosage limit and Take the medicine only for the recommended period.
Notice the changes
Check the performance of the supplement on your body. If you do not notice any betterment, consult the doctor again.
Check the label of the product
Buy standardized products, Look for harmful chemical ingredients in the label. If any, do not purchase it. I recommend 100% herbal products.
Herbs that can be harmful
Below are the harmful effects of some herb supplements:
Ginkgo
Ginkgo is a famous herb known to increase memory, blood circulation and mental function. However, this herb can be dangerous if you are consuming blood-thinning medicines daily. Ginkgo can worsen blood thinning and cause bleeding in the body.
Aloe vera
Aloe Vera is a common ingredient in every lotion or any herbal wound healing cream. The miraculous healing of cuts or wounds is truly admirable and true. Apart from using this gel externally, it is also used as a supplement for treating pitta dosha, liver problems etc. However, consumption of Aloe Vera juice internally can impair regular heartbeat and lower blood sugar levels in people who suffer from diabetes.
Garlic
We see garlic everywhere, from the kitchen to medicine supplements. It has abilities to lower cholesterol levels, treat high blood pressure and combat symptoms of flu. There is one bad thing about garlic that it is a blood thinner. It can be harmful to people who take drugs that contain blood thinners.
Kava
A herbal treatment for anxiety and sleeplessness, but Harmful to those with kidney and liver problems. It can damage your organs. So, do not consume it if you suffer from kidney or liver problems.
Ginseng
Many take it to escape from the reality of ageing. The intake of this supplement is used to enhance the immune system and improve sexual health. One myth about this herb is that it treats diabetes! In reality, this can dangerously affect you by decreasing blood sugar levels.
Feverfew
Never take this herb without the prior advice of a doctor. A high content of potassium and phosphorus can cause health complications in kidney patients. Regular consumption of Feverfew will slow the pace of blood clotting. Hence can be dangerous to cardiovascular and bleeding conditions.
St John’s Wort
This Herbal supplement works for problems like insomnia, depression and anxiety. However, there are more side effects than benefits. So before you reach your hands to this herb think twice. It can induce side effects like dizziness, headache, dehydrated mouth and nausea. It can also make your skin sensitive and prone to sunburns. Cancer patients will not be able to reap benefits of chemotherapy as this herb makes it less effective. Patients who take birth control pills, heart medicines and antidepressants should avoid this herb to stay away from complications.
Arnica
This herb is incredibly dangerous. Everyone should consider the negatives of this herb before using it. This herb Increases blood pressure and obstructs the regular rhythm of the heartbeat. It can cause breathlessness and kill a person too. Some other side effects include liver damage and coma conditions.
Licorice root
People with heart and kidney diseases should avoid licorice root in their diet. It increases blood pressure and causes irregular heartbeat problems.
Ginger
Ginger can worsen gallstones. It also inhibits coagulation of blood and affects heart rhythm. If you are taking blood thinner medicines, do not consume this herb.
Black collosh
This herb is bad for the liver. It can cause damage and failure. Black collosh is widely used to treat the symptoms of menopause that include night sweating and light flashes. However, consumption if black collosh in excess amount can cause low blood pressure.