Question

Give three examples of herbal supplements with positive effect and three examples with negative effects and explain the mechanism of each effect?

Answer 1

Examples of Herbel Supplements with positive effects -

Aloe Vera: used topically for burns, psoriasis and osteoarthritis. Used in the oral form for digestive issues such as gastritis or constipation.

Chamomile: used to treat sleeplessness, anxiety, upset stomach, gas and diarrhea. It is also used topically for skin conditions. Caution in people with ragweed allergy.

Echinacea: used to fight cold and flu symptoms.

Flaxseed: used to lower cholesterol. Good source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

Ginko: used to treat memory problems and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Can be used along with the antidepressant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to enhance sex drive and sexual performance in people who have side effects with antidepressant medications.

3 Examples of Herbel Supplements with adverse Effects-

Name	Other common names	Scientific name	Adverse effects
Aconite	monkshood, wolfsbane, aconitum	Aconitum spp.	Heart palpitations and arrhythmias, hypotension, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, respiratory system paralysis, death
Aloe vera juice	medicinal aloe	Aloe vera	abdominal pain, diarrhea, potentially carcinogenic, with others can potentiate cardiac glycosides and
Areca nut	betel nut	Areca catechu	"deterioration of psychosis in patients with preexisting psychos" known carcinogen contributing to cancer of the mouth, pharynx, esophagus and stomach when chewed.