Heart palpitations occur when the heart beats at an irregular rhythm. The heart normally has its own type of electrical conduction system that controls each contraction and keeps it pumping at an even pace. When this system is disrupted, an arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat occurs. Heart palpitations are a type of arrhythmia that may feel as if the heart is occasionally pounding or fluttering. Some types of medical conditions, medications and some herbal supplements can all cause heart palpitations. Always talk to your doctor before using a new herb or supplement.
Herbs Containing Caffeine
There are some herbal supplements that contain caffeine, which has a stimulant effect. These types of herbs may be used to help with fatigue and for diminishing migraine headaches. According to the Herb Research Foundation, beverages and supplements containing caffeine are generally safe to use in moderation for those without significant health problems. Side effects of these types of herbs include nervousness, sleeplessness and heart palpitations. Caffeine is found in many drinks including coffee and tea, and herbs that contain caffeine include cola nut and guarana.
Nervines
Although they are primarily used for their calming effects, some herbs called nervines may cause temporary side effects of heart palpitations. These types of herbs affect the nervous system and are sometimes used in the treatment of anxiety disorders, hyperactivity or sleep disruption. For example, the nervine herb valerian normally works as a sedative, but some people get the opposite results when they take it, causing stimulation of the nervous system and heart palpitations.
Ephedra
Some herbal remedies contain ephedra, which may be used as appetite suppressants for weight loss. Ma huang, otherwise known as Ephedra sinensis, is stimulating to the central nervous system and causes side effects of anxiety, sleep disruptions, irritability and heart palpitations. This type of herb may be combined with other preparations, such as caffeine or pseudoephedrine for its stimulant effects, while other formulations may consist of extracts, which could be much more potent, causing significant side effects.
Safety
Herbal supplements are available over the counter at many health food stores and drugstores. Some people take herbs for health or because they have heard that certain types of herbs will reduce symptoms of some kinds of illnesses. While many choose to take herbs in place of conventional medicine, herbs are not always regulated for safety, nor can they claim that they cure certain diseases. Talk with your doctor about what types of herbal supplements you may be taking to see if they interact with other types of medications. If you develop heart palpitations, notify your doctor to determine if herbal supplements are the cause or if the condition is a symptom of another illness.
