There are certain herbs that should be used with moderation and care. And in case you have been prescribed pharmaceutical remedies, note that they should not be taken in conjunction with herbal remedies.

If combined together, they can be potentially dangerous to your health, and may cause very unpleasant physical side-effects.
Therefore, don't put your health at risk by disrespecting both fields of knowledge and expertise.

Powerful and dangerous healing herbs

St. John's Wort

This medicinal plant is known worldwide by its powers, specially in what regards treating depressions, mental and sleeping disorders.
However, due to its strong compounds (hypericin and hyperforin), it can easily break down the effects of conventional medicine, interacting with modern drugs.

Some experts also defend, that St. John's Wort breaks down the effects of contraceptive pills, antidepressants, HIV drugs, along with interfering with chemotherapy treatments.

And when improperly used, this plant can cause unpleasant physical sensations, that can vary from a dry mouth sensation, to skin allergies, vomiting, nausea, headaches, nervous tension, sexual and sleeping disorders. 

Gingko Biloba

Gingko is used in Japan and Asia since remote times, to treat the elderly, to improve cases of poor blood circulation, heart, kidney and nervous disorders.
It  also helps clearing the arteries and blood vessels from the action of cholesterol and saturated fats.

Presently, there are many labs and scientists worldwide studying the effects of Gingko in our health, since there is no solid or real evidence backing up its positive or adverse effects.

Despite the fact that we don't know much about its powers and effects, many people report allergies, skin reactions and headaches, specially when taking Gingko in conjugation with anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirins.

Finally, Gingko should never be taken in conjugation with alcohol, aspirin or paracetamol.

Kava-Kava

Kava-Kava is used in Asia and South Pacific for more than 3000 years.
Also known as "Kava Pepper", its a powerful plant aiding people to focus, to relax, to sleep, calming the nerves in the process.

This plant inducing to "euphoria", is also used by people wanting to achieve higher states of consciousness or concentration.

Nevertheless, it should never be taken by pregnant women, by people suffering from mild or serious depression, paranoia or in conjugation with alcohol,  aspirins or paracetamol.
The use and intake of Kava-Kava should always be monitored by an expert, and should never cross the 3 month limit.

Safety precautions

• Inform your doctor in case you are taking herbal remedies, mentioning which ones and for what purpose (the same information should be provided to your herbalist);
   

• Use herbal and synthetic remedies properly and with respect, never self-prescribing herbs or mixes without prior knowledge or professional prescription.
  Given the safety concerns surrounding the use of herbs and medicine in general, our advice is prudence and wisdom when making use of both types of remedies;
   

• If the person taking herbs feels unwell, or has concerns about possible side-effects of a specific remedy, the intake should stop and the person should seek medical advice or treatment as soon as possible.

Our health is precious, and one should never put it at risk. So, respect both fields of healing and human knowledge, making the most out of what nature and science offer you.

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