Getting It Right With Herbs And Herbal Supplements

The possibility of drug interactions, direct toxicities, and contamination with active pharmaceutical agents are among the safety concerns about dietary and herbal supplements. Although there is a widespread public perception that herbs and botanical products in dietary supplements are safe, research has demonstrated that these products carry the same dangers as other pharmacologically active compounds. Interactions may occur between prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and even small molecules in food—making it a daunting challenge to identify all interactions that are of clinical concern.

Used correctly, herbs can help treat a variety of conditions, and in some cases, may have fewer side effects than some conventional medications. Never assume that because herbs are "natural," they are safe even if not taken with caution. Some herbs may be inappropriate for people with certain medical conditions. Because they are unregulated, herbal products are often mislabeled and may contain additives and contaminants that are not listed on the label. Some herbs may cause allergic reactions or interact with conventional drugs, and some are toxic if used improperly or at high doses. Let’s illustrate with some known herbs.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) has been used in traditional medicine to treat circulatory disorders and enhance memory. Ginkgo may be especially effective in treating dementia (including Alzheimer's disease) and intermittent claudication (poor circulation in the legs). It also shows promise for enhancing memory in older adults. Laboratory studies have shown that ginkgo improves blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and reducing the stickiness of blood platelets. By the same token, this means ginkgo may also increase the effect of some blood-thinning medications, including aspirin. People taking blood-thinning medications should avoid ginkgo-based supplements when they are on such medication. People with a history of seizures, like epileptic seizures, should avoid it and because our product Memorite contains Ginko, it's not good for bp patients who are on blood thinners at the time they take the products.

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Echinacea : (from Echinacea Purpurea and other Echinacea species) may improve the body's natural immunity, It is contained in our Immune booster. Echinacea is one of the most commonly used herbal products. Studies have shown that it can interfere with immunosuppressant agents, thus those that have had organ transplants will see their organs rejected. Immunosuppressant drugs are a class of drugs that suppress, or reduce, the strength of the body’s immune system. Some of these drugs are used to make the body less likely to reject a transplanted organ, such as a liver, heart, or kidney. These drugs are called anti-rejection drugs. Other immunosuppressant drugs are often used to treat autoimmune disorders such as lupus, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Generally speaking, immune-boosting herbs may not be used for transplant patients and people suffering from Auto-immune conditions.

PEPPERMINT :

Peppermint is an excellent digestive aid. It soothes and calms the digestive system when used internally or externally. May interfere with gastric acid-blocking drugs like antacids. Examples of antacids include Alka-Seltzer, Milk of Magnesia, Alternagel, Amphojel, Gaviscon, Gelusil, Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids, etc. One key peppermint-based product is Marina spa.

ST. JOHNS WORT 

St. John’s Wort is a popular herbal supplement widely used to help with symptoms of depression. Drug interactions with St. John's Wort can be numerous and dangerous. Due to the seriousness of many drug interactions, you should consult with your healthcare provider before using St. John's Wort. Do not combine St. John's Wort with antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), monoamine oxidase (MAO) Inhibitors, nefazodone, triptans for migraine, dextromethorphan, warfarin birth control pills, 40 plus for women contains St. John’s wort.

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 Note that we don't administer 40 plus for women, if a woman is on a bp pill, anti-depressant pill, or for breast cancer cases.
Call Felix Joshua at +2347038574573, or +2348074256315 for more information