Herbs are plants that can be used as food, medicine or both. While a time-honored approach to natural health, some herbs do contain dangerous ingredients and should be avoided, especially if you are currently taking prescription medication or have any medical conditions. Always consult your health care provider before trying herbs for medicinal purposes.
Guarana
Guarana is an herbal remedy from South America. It is used in herbal and folk medicine to treat headaches, fatigue and a weak constitution. It is believed to strengthen the immune system and increase physical stamina and vitality. However, its main active ingredient is caffeine. According to HolisticOnline.com it contains 3 to 5 percent more caffeine than a regular cup of coffee. Caffeine is a powerful stimulant and should be avoided by those with heart conditions as it can increase blood pressure and cause irregular heart beats and palpitations. Talk to your doctor before using guarana.
Kola Nut
Kola nut is another herbal remedy from South America, found mainly in Brazil. It is naturally high in caffeine and is the original source of the stimulant found in commercial colas. Herbalists use kola nut as a health tonic and to combat fatigue and malaise. Health Library notes that like guarana, kola nut may cause minor heart palpitations and should be avoided by those with high blood pressure or other heart conditions. Consult your health care provider before trying this herb.
Ephedra
Ephedra is the chemical constituent of the Chinese herb ma huang. In traditional Chinese medicine it is used to treat asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory conditions. Like steroidal inhalers, it contains stimulants and may affect the heart and blood pressure. In the US its use is banned, but has been used in the past as a weight loss aid. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that ephedra can cause side effects such as irritability, restlessness, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, as well as more serious problems, including high blood pressure, rapid or irregular heart beat, stroke, seizures and even death. Avoid this herb, especially if you have been diagnosed with a heart condition.
Ginseng
Although it does not contain caffeine, ginseng has other stimulant properties. It is used to boost the immune system, enhance mental performance and increase physical stamina. However, it should be avoided if you have high blood pressure or other heart problems as it can worsen these conditions and even cause palpitations. HolisticOnline.com points out that it increases blood pressure, and can be overstimulating to the body, resulting in restlessness and even insomnia. Consuming ginseng with caffeine increases the possible dangers. Always consult your health care provider before trying ginseng or other herbs.
