Herbal medicines are a major component of traditional medicine, and the World Health Organization estimates that 80 percent of the world's population uses herbal medicines for some aspect of primary care. Further, according to the Herb Palace, WHO says that about three-quarters of the 119 plant-derived pharmaceutical medicines are used in the same way as in traditional cultures. Herbal medications come in a variety of forms: lozenges, syrups, pills, ointments or salves, extracts, teas and tinctures.
About Tinctures
Herbal medications may contain roots, leaves, flowers, bark or fruit. A tincture is a liquid in which alcohol is used to extract and concentrate the properties of the herb. In addition, alcohol is an effective natural preservative. Tinctures are concentrated and an effective way to administer the herb as only small amounts are needed. One disadvantage is that the full taste of the herb comes through in a tincture and some tinctures may be too strong or bitter-tasting, especially for children.
Tincture Side Effects
Like any medicine, herbal medicines can have side effects. In some cases they are mild but in other cases they may be life-threatening. For example, Melanie Cupp, a pharmacist at West Virginia University School of Pharmacy, notes that ginkgo biloba can cause bleeding. Cupp says people who are taking ginkgo products should inform their physicians about unusual bleeding or bruising, new-onset headaches or vision changes. Ephedra, also known as ma huang, is a stimulant that can increase blood pressure, cause insomnia or even precipitate a stroke, seizure or heart attack.
Herbal Tincture Interactions
Although not technically a side effect, herbal tinctures can also interact with conventional medications. Cupp reports that ginseng may interact with warfarin, decreasing its effectiveness. Kava can increase the effect of central nervous system depressants and cause lethargy. St. John's wort, promoted as an herbal therapy for depression, can interact with other antidepressant medications.
Alcohol Intolerance
Some people are intolerant to the alcohol which is used in most herbal tinctures, although some tinctures are made with glycerin or cider vinegar. Sometimes incorrectly called an allergy to alcohol, this condition is genetic and caused by an inability to break down alcohol. The Mayo Clinic notes that if you have alcohol intolerance you must avoid alcohol entirely in all forms.
Considerations and Warnings
It is important to remember that herbal tinctures are medications, and like all medications, they are best used as part of a medical management plan. Cupp notes that about 25 percent of Americans who see a doctor about a serious health problem are using some sort of herbal or alternative medication but only 70 percent of these patients tell the physician of such use. Consult a qualified health-care professional about any herbal medications including tinctures.
References
- Herb Palace; History of Herbal Medicine; Lian Jin Chong, M.D.; February 2004 http://www.herbpalace.com/alternative-medicine/herbal-medicine.html "American Family Physician"; Herbal Remedies: Adverse Effects and Drug Interactions; Melanie Johns Cupp, Pharm. D.; March 1999 http://www.aafp.org/afp/990301ap/1239.html MayoClinic.com; Herbal Supplements: What to Know Before You Buy; March 2010 http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/alcohol-intolerance/DS01172
