Natural Is Not Always Safe: A Simple Guide to Herb Safety

It is easy to think that anything from a plant must be gentle. Many herbs are gentle. But some plants are strong, some interact with medicines, and some are not safe for everyone. A few simple rules keep herb use safe.

Rule 1: Tell your doctor and pharmacist

If you take any regular medicine, ask before using herbs regularly, especially as capsules, tinctures or concentrated extracts. Pharmacists are often the easiest people to ask.

Rule 2: Know the well-known interactions

A few examples:

• St. John's wort can reduce the effect of many medicines, including some antidepressants, birth control pills and blood thinners.
• Ginkgo, garlic supplements and ginger supplements may add to the effect of blood thinners.
• Licorice root can raise blood pressure when taken often or in large amounts.

This is not a complete list, which is why rule 1 matters.

Rule 3: Be extra careful in some situations

Talk to a doctor before using herbs if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, giving herbs to children, preparing for surgery, or living with a liver, kidney or heart condition.

Rule 4: Teas are not the same as supplements

A cup of herbal tea is usually much milder than a capsule or extract of the same plant. Concentrated products can have stronger effects and more risk.

Rule 5: Identify plants with certainty

Never pick and use a wild plant unless you are completely sure what it is. Some poisonous plants look very similar to harmless ones.

Rule 6: Buy from trusted sources

In the US, herbal supplements are not checked like medicines before they are sold. Choose brands with clear labels and, if possible, independent quality seals.

Rule 7: Herbs don't replace a doctor

Use herbs for small everyday comforts, not to treat serious or lasting symptoms. If something is worrying you, see a doctor.

Respect the plants

The people who used herbs in the past respected their strength. That respect is the best rule of all.