Insights from herb interactions studies: a foundational report for integrative medicine

Abstract

Background

As the use of herbal therapies alongside conventional medications continues to rise, understanding the complexities of these interactions becomes essential for ensuring patient safety and optimizing therapeutic outcomes.

Main body

Herbal remedies, sometimes referred to as phytotherapy or herbalism, use plants and plant extracts for medicinal purposes. Various plant parts, such as leaves, roots, flowers, and seeds, are used in herbal medicines to cure illnesses and enhance health. They can be applied topically or taken as tinctures, extracts, teas, or capsules. Although using herbal treatments can have therapeutic benefits, it is important to be aware of any possible interactions. When two or more herbal products are taken together, there may be interactions between them that change their effects, intensify their side effects, or reduce their efficacy. Before using herbal medicines, it is crucial to speak with your doctor because they may have side effects and interfere with prescription drugs. The possible effects that herbs may have on prescription drugs when taken combined are referred to as herb–drug interactions.

Conclusion

These interactions may result in unexpected health outcomes, an increase in adverse effects, or modifications in the effectiveness of the medication. Herbs can also affect absorption and metabolism of food. Different countries have different laws governing herbal products. They may be subject to more strict regulations in some countries, while in others they are regarded as dietary supplement.