6 Tips: How Herbs Can Interact With Medicines

https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/tips-how-herbs-can-interact-with-medicines?nav=govd It’s common for people to take both herbal supplements and prescription or over-the-counter drugs. But did you know that some herbs and supplements may interact in harmful ways? For many herbs and supplements, there’s currently little information on possible interactions, and more research is needed. But we do know that certain herbs have a high risk of interacting with medicines: St. John’s wort interacts with many types of drugs. In most instances, it speeds up the processes that change the drug into inactive substances, leading to a decrease in drug levels in your body. St. John’s wort can also interact with certain antidepressants and other drugs in a different way that increases the risk of serious serotonin-related side effects. Other herbal products that may interact with drugs include concentrated green tea supplements, goldenseal, and Asian ginseng. It’s important to tell your health care providers about all medicines and supplements you take so they can help you avoid interactions.