herbal medicine
St. John’s Wort (Hypericum
nUses: Depression, Anxiety, Antiviral Agent
n#1 Anti-depressant in Germany
nMajor action is the inhibition of seratonin, norepinephrine and dopamine uptake and down-regulation of receptors, standardized on hypericin content
nLikely safe in usual doses, in high doses can cause severe photogenic skin reactions
Echinacea
nUses: Prophylaxis and treatment of cold and flu symptoms (stimulation of phagocytes), immune system stimulation
nLikely safe when used short-term up to 12 weeks
nPossibly effective for decreasing symptoms of cold and flu
nPossibly ineffective for preventing URI’s
Ginkgo biloba
nPrecautions and interactions: Ginkolide is a selective antagonist of platelet aggregation. Case reports of subdural hematoma and spontaneous bleeding with ASA use. Reports of GI disturbances and CNS symptom
nGinkgo and caffeine may increase risk of subdural hematomas
nGinkgo helped SSRI induced sexual dysfunction 91% in women, 76% in men (Cohen and Bartlik 1998)
nUse with extreme caution with stimulants
my opinion about herbal medecine
on my opinion A herb is a plant or plant part used for its scent, flavor, or therapeutic properties. Herbal medicines are one type of dietary supplement. They are sold as tablets, capsules, powders, teas, extracts, and fresh or dried plants. People use herbal medicines to try to maintain or improve their health.
Many people believe that products labeled "natural" are always safe and good for them. This is not necessarily true. Herbal medicines do not have to go through the testing that drugs do. Some herbs, such as comfrey and ephedra, can cause serious harm. Some herbs can interact with prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
If you are thinking about using an herbal medicine, first get information on it from reliable sources. Make sure to tell your health care provider about any herbal medicines you are taking.