Chinese herbs and herbal remedies have been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of ills, and continue to be used today in the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine, or CAM (Complementary Alternative Medicine) by many traditional Western physicians. However, as with anything, too much of any drug or herb may have detrimental side effects. If you are taking Chinese herbs or herbal treatments, or any type of alternative medicine, you should discuss them with your primary care physician to make sure the herbs will not interact with prescriptive medications or disease processes that may lead to organ damage or drug efficacy.
Bai Bu
Bai Bu, a root often taken for chronic coughing as well as to treat lice externally and pinworms internally, may cause stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea.
Ginseng
Ginseng is an extremely popular Chinese herb, but ingesting large amounts of it may cause increased blood pressure, increased breath rate, headaches, insomnia and a sense of anxiousness.
Tian Ma
Tian Ma, also a root, may be prescribed for headaches, tremors and some forms of epilepsy, but it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Allergic reaction may range from a rash to hives.
San Qi
San Qi, a type of ginseng, is often prescribed to reduce swelling, reduce pain and to reduce or stop internal and external bleeding. This herb may cause bloating or redness in the face and around the eyes. Some people may experience numbness in the extremities, heart palpitations and nausea and sweating.
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