With more people turning toward alternative medicine and natural herbs as a means to combat disease and disorders as opposed to prescription medication, patients can benefit from becoming more educated on the possible negative side effects associated with many common herbal remedies and natural supplements. Although most natural supplements on the market are available over the counter, it's highly recommended that patients check with a medical professional to limit the onset of any side effects.
Ginkgo Biloba: Bleeding
According to an article published in the American Academy of Family Physicians by Melanie Johns Cupp, Pharm.D, ginkgo biloba is often used by patients for the treatment of many common disorders. These range from anxiety to minor blood disorders, such as hypertension (otherwise known as high blood pressure). However, this herbal supplement has also been known to cause bleeding in some patients after prolonged use. An example that Cupp explains in her article includes a 70-year-old-man who presented to his doctor with bleeding in the eye canal one week after beginning a self-prescribed regimen of ginkgo biloba, consisting of a dosage of 40mg twice daily (most ginkgo supplements come in recommended dosages much higher).
St. John's Wort: Nausea, Fatigue
Often used by supplement users for the treatment of anxiety and depression, St. John's Wort also has side effects associated with the herb. According to Cupp, adverse effects from taking the supplement include nausea, weakness and fatigue. One report in Cupp's article describes a 50-year-old woman who had taken a St. John's Wort powder supplement in a dosage of 600mg per day for 10 days. She developed the above symptoms in addition to becoming incoherent. Other examples of side effects associated with the herb include dry mouth, dizziness, confusion and stomach irritation.
Vitamin D: Toxicity
According to Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D., a nutritionist at the Mayo Clinic, patients found to be taking an excessive amount of vitamin D as a supplement have experienced symptoms related to toxicity. These symptoms include but are not limited to kidney disease, liver problems, weakness, confusion, fatigue and constipation. According to Zeratsky, the recommended dosage for adults older than 50 ranges from 400IU to 600IU daily. Additional complications may also result from drug interactions associated with taking other prescription medications along with the supplement.
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