When Herbs & Medicines CollideWritten by Sky Taylor, Diet Bites Basil's House of Herbs: Herb Recipes | Herb Index Herbal Supplements, Unregulated & Potentially Damaging to HealthBefore taking herb supplements be sure to get with your doctor, particularly if you are taking prescription medications. Individuals at highest risk include those on blood pressure medications, blood thinners, heart medications, diabetic medications and MAOI's. Herb & Medicine Interactions CommonThese medications can collide with herbal supplements, thus creating serious health disturbances. In addition, individuals suffering from other ailments, particularly the liver should avoid herbal supplements until meeting with their physician for discussion and approval. Also included in this list are individuals who may have a hidden health condition - including pregnant women who aren't aware they are pregnant. In these type situations, irreversible damage may be done to the body or to the unborn child by taking certain herbal remedies or concoctions. Particular herbal supplements to avoid while taking medications include the following list. Black CohoshOften used in herbal medicine for treating hypertension in women. Dong Quai(Angelica) - used in herbal medicine for treating female disorders, such as menopause. FeverfewUsed in herbal medicine in treating migraines, muscle spasms, and as a mild sedative. GarlicUsed in herbal medicine for congestion, coughs, preventing blood clots, controlling hypertension and insomnia. GingerUsed for relieving pain; headaches, fighting nausea, to break up fever. Ginkgo & GensengAssociated with endurance, improvement of performance, anti-stress. GoldensealHerbal medicinal uses include treatment for poison ivy, balancing insulin levels and for relieving sinus pressure. KavaUsed in herbal medicine as a relaxant. Milk ThistleUsed to purify and treat the liver. St. John's WortUsed in herbal medicine for treating cancer; intestinal swelling. Reference: Tom, the Biologist Related Articles Metabolism & Weight Loss | The Caloric Burn Diet Bites is a Trademark |