Herbal medication's popularity has increased in recent years, and producing such supplements is a multi-billion dollar business, according to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. While people may take these herbal medicines because they are natural rather than synthesized, they still may cause side effects. Not all side effects will occur in all people who take these supplements, but there are some to consider.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea may be caused by any number of herbal medications as well as prescription and over-the-counter medications. It can cause you to lose excessive fluids, which can lead to dehydration. Diarrhea may fade and disappear with continued use of herbal medications. Some herbal medications that may produce diarrhea as a side effect include echinacea, St. John's wort, fenugreek and 5-HTP.
Nausea
As with diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset or even vomiting may occur when taking an herbal medication because it may not agree with your digestive system. Stomach problems may disappear with continued use. Such herbal medications as chamomile, echinacea, 5-HTP and garlic may cause stomach upset.
Headaches
Many medications---herbal or traditional---may cause headaches, especially when you first use them. Among the herbal medications that may cause such side effects are ginseng, St. John's wort, fenugreek, ginkgo biloba and echinacea.
Member Comments