Herbal supplements are quite popular right now, and have been for several years, as an alternative to manmade prescription drugs. These supplements come from plants. Herbs are a natural way to treat depression, relieve the symptoms of menopause, and ward off common colds, the flu, and more.
Just because a herbal supplement is natural doesn't mean that it doesn't have any risks of side effect when taken, though. Take for example an herb known as St. John's Wort. It's used everyday by thousands of people to treat mild depression. This bright yellow flower may look harmless to take, but the most common side effects include nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and a sensitivity to sunlight. Some people have also experienced Hypertension when they take St. John's Wort.
Echinacea is a natural antibiotic that is used to help ward off common colds and the flu. It does this by boosting up your immune system. Its side effects range from Echinacea Numb Tongue to allergic reactions. Echinacea Numb Tongue is just what its name implies. It's not a life threatening condition; it's just an unpleasant side effect.
This natural antibiotic may also cause an inflammation of the liver to occur if it is taken with drugs that are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
And, if you're allergic to Ragweed or Marigold flowers, then you might experience an allergic reaction when you take Echinacea.
Ginkgo Biloba is another popular herb that is used to enhance your memory as well as your brain functions. It does this by providing more blood and oxygen to your brain. It also helps to make you feel more energetic.
Its side effects include headaches, nausea, and possible allergic reactions. It may increase your heart rate and raise your blood pressure. Since Ginkgo Biloba is a known blood thinner, you shouldn't take it if you are already taking prescription blood thinners.
Goldenseal is yet another one of nature's antibiotics. This flowery plant is also known as Golden Daisy, Moon Daisy, Eye Balm, and Indian Plant.
Goldenseal is used to prevent common colds and flu by boosting your immunity system, treat Diarrhea, and sinus infections. When it is used on the skin, Goldenseal can help to treat cold sores as well as other minor skin problems.
The possible side effects of taking Goldenseal include nausea, headache, allergic symptoms, and uterine contractions. If you think that you may be pregnant or are trying to get pregnant, then you should not take Goldenseal. Also, if you are taking prescription drugs for Hypertension or blood thinners, then you should not take this herbal supplement.
There are several types of Ginseng: American, Korean or Chinese, and Siberian. Ginseng comes from the root of the plant. It's used as a pick-me-up and an energy booster. It also can be used to help stabilize blood sugar levels and to treat impotence in men.
The possible side effects of taking this herbal supplement include headaches, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, insomnia, nosebleeds, nausea, and diarrhea.
Ginseng is also known to be a blood thinner. And if you are taking anti-psychotic drugs, then you should avoid taking this herb because it can give you a sense of euphoria.
Before you decide to take any herbal supplement to help treat the symptoms of an illness, you should first consult your healthcare professional. Besides the side effects, natural herbs can counteract with prescription drugs you are currently taking.
