WASHINGTON -- A new warning is out for those who use herbal remedies either to help manage chronic illness or for everyday wellness.
A report in the Feb. 9 issue of The Journal of the American College of Cardiology says mixing medicines with herbal products can prove to be dangerous, even deadly in some cases.
Most would consider grapefruit juice to be a healthy choice. But according to a new report on herbal remedies, grapefruit juice may not be healthy if you're on heart medicine. The juice can increase the effects of certain drugs, like beta and calcium channel blockers. The mixture could result in dangerously low blood pressure, or liver toxicity.
One of the best sellers in the United States, St. John's Wort is another herb to watch. The reviews say it can increase heart rate and blood pressure after looking at two nationwide surveys from 1990 and 1997. The study also pointed out garlic can increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking warfarin. Ginkgo biloba taken to improve circulation and sharpen the mind increased bleeding in those taking warfarin or aspirin.
In the study, half of the patients failed to let their doctors know they were taking supplements.
"We have no way of knowing which patient is going to have a minor problem or which Patient is going to have a serious problem, in large part because we can't understand how pure and what form the herb they're taking is, and what dose," says Dr. Richard Stein with the American Heart Association.
A spokesperson for the council for Responsible Nutrition says the study contains some inaccuracies. In a written statement, Dr. Douglas Mackay said "the potential risk for a drug interaction can be eliminated by speaking openly with your doctor."
Researchers concluded in study notes herbs have been used for centuries with several benefits, but more studies are needed to understand the full potential harm of herbs when taking certain modern medications.
