Interactions between medicinal plants and medication

Interactions between medicinal plants and medication

interactions between medicinal plants and medication

The use of medicinal plants for the treatment of diseases and symptoms has a long tradition and is practiced in many cultures worldwide. Plants contain a variety of bioactive compounds that can have both positive and negative effects on health. It is therefore important to understand how the use of medicinal plants can affect the effectiveness of medication.

Foundations of the interactions

The interactions between medicinal plants and medication can occur in several ways. One possibility is that bioactive connections in the medicinal plants can increase or weaken the effects of medication. This is done by influencing enzymes in the body, which are responsible for the dismantling or activation of medication.

Another option is that certain components of the medicinal plants interact with the medication and influence their effectiveness. This can cause the medication to be broken down faster or slower or do not act properly in the body.

frequent interactions

Some medicinal plants are known for making interactions with certain types of medication. An example of this is St. John's Wort preparations that are often used to treat depression. St. John's wort can accelerate the dismantling of certain antidepressants in the body, which can lead to a reduced effectiveness of the medication.

Another example is the interaction between the medicinal plant Ginkgo Biloba and blood -thinning medication such as Warfarin. Ginkgo Biloba can increase the effect of warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding.

meaning of communication with the doctor

Since the interactions between medicinal plants and medication can vary individually, it is important that patients talk to their doctor about the use of medicinal plants. The doctor can inform about possible interactions and, if necessary, propose alternative treatment options.

It is also important to note that medicinal plants are not always harmless and can have side effects. Some plants can trigger allergic reactions or interfere with existing medical conditions.

potential negative effects

At the same time, taking medicinal plants and medication carries the risk of side effects and negative effects on health. Some plants can weaken the effectiveness of medication, which can lead to inadequate treatment. Other plants can increase the effect of medication and lead to overdose or undesirable effects.

An example of a potentially dangerous interaction is the combination of medicinal plants with anti -blood clotting medication. Medicinal plants such as garlic, ginger and ginkgo biloba can increase the blood -thinning effect of these medication and lead to excessive bleeding.

There are also cases in which medicinal plants can increase the side effects of medication. A well -known example is the interaction between grapefruit and certain medication. The consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice can inhibit the breakdown of medication in the body and lead to an increased concentration of the medication, which can lead to overdose and serious side effects.

precautionary measures and advice

In order to prevent potential interactions between medicinal plants and medication, patients should consider the following precautions:

1. Find your doctor about all medication and medicinal plants you take. Your doctor can help you identify possible interactions and take suitable measures.

2. Read the package supplement of your medication carefully. Some drugs contain information about possible interactions with certain medicinal plants.

3. Note that natural or herbal products are not always safe. Find out more about the ingredients and possible side effects of medicinal plants before taking them.

4. Gradually increase the dosage of medicinal plants and observe possible side effects. If you notice unusual symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

FAZIT

The interactions between medicinal plants and medication are an important topic that should be taken into account by patients and medical specialist staff. Medicinal plants can influence the effectiveness of medication and lead to undesirable side effects. It is therefore important that patients talk to their doctor about the use of medicinal plants and take into account possible interactions. Comprehensive information and communication are the key to minimizing potential risks and ensuring safe and effective treatment.

sources:
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021). "Using Dietary Supplements Wisely". Called up by https://www.nccih.nih.gov/Health/using-dietary-supplements-wisely
- American College of Cardiology. (2020). "The Interaction of Herbs and Supplements with Warfarin". Accessed by https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/articles/2020/08/18/the-interaction-of-herbs-supplements-warfarin