Don’t Take Natural Remedies Lightly

Just like any other medication, “natural” or herbal remedies carry benefits and risks. Garlic, for example, can lower your cholesterol, but also raises your risk for bleeding—dangerous if you’re on blood thinners or having surgery. Kava can ease anxiety, but if taken too long, it can lead to hair loss and liver problems.

The bottom line: Despite that “natural” label, these products are chemical substances with potential side effects and interactions. Before you take any alternative remedy, do your homework.

That can be challenging. Because of the lack of research, we don’t know enough yet about the effects of most herbal remedies. And they’re not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which means you can’t be sure about the amount of active ingredients or the strength of a particular product.

Magazines, books and web sites are full of information on natural remedies, but some are more reliable than others. If you’re not sure, your pharmacist may be able to help.

“He or she can tell you about side effects, check for interactions and look up brands that have more consistent ingredients,” says registered pharmacist Janine Barnaby of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network.

It’s also vital to tell your doctor about any natural remedy you’re considering. A physician can tell you what is and isn’t known about it and whether it’s likely to aggravate a medical condition or interfere with other drugs you’re taking.

“Make sure your doctor is aware of all your prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements,” says internist Zubina Mawji, M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. “Our goal is to protect your health. Whatever you’re taking, we need to know about it.”

If you do decide to try a natural remedy, be alert to side effects such as nausea, rash, rapid heart rate, sweating, vision problems, weight loss and headaches. If you experience anything out of the ordinary, stop taking the remedy and call your doctor.