Herbals

Question 1

Echinacea

Answer 1

Overall effect in doubt, probably enhances T-cell function.
Maybe antibiotic, inhibit bacterial cell tissue invasion.
Few toxicity issues (bad to boost IS if you have an AD), bad taste, allergies

Question 2

St. John’s wort

P450 inducer

Answer 2

Small but real efficacy against dysthymic depression.

Toxic: photosensitivity, potentiates sedation added to CNS depressant**, P450 inducer ***

Question 3

Kava kava

Answer 3

Mild sedative.

GI distress, allergy, dizziness, and may add to CNS depressant effects (toxicity)

Question 4

Valerian (GABA)

Answer 4

Prevents GABA breakdown, decreases sleep latency and increases sleep efficiency.
Side effects: mild GI disturbance, paradoxical insomnia **, nervousness, excitability.

Question 5

Gingko biloba

Answer 5

May improve circulation, improved social functioning in Alzheimers pt.
May promote bleeding, GI upset, headache.

Question 6

Aloe Vera (low K+)

Answer 6

Skin moisturizer, laxative (too strong for regular use).

Can cause potassium depletion***

Question 7

Ginseng

Answer 7

Increased energy, some sympathetic stimulation, memory enhancing.
Toxic: insomnia, nervousness
CONTRAINDICATIONS: asthma, emphysema, high BP, cardiac arrhythmias, diabetic therapy interaction and antidepressants.

Question 8

Yohimbine

Answer 8

Alpha-2 antagonist= alpha-adrenergic agonist.
Serotonin antagonist,
Increases sexual activity *in rats
Toxic: increase BP, increase HR, tremors, may promote angina.

Question 9

Saw Palmetto

Answer 9

May be useful in BPH
May inhibit dihydrotestosterone production
Toxic: mainly GI upset

Question 10

Garlic

Answer 10

Lowers LDL by 50%

Thins blood, decreases clotting, lowers BP mildly.

Question 11

Feverfew

Answer 11

Reduced migraine attacks when chewed.

Side effects: nervous, dizy, GI irritation, cramping, chewing leaves can cause mouth ulcers.