Institute Of Medicine Inmate Testing

Admin | November 23, 2011 | Comments Off

Institute Of Medicine Inmate Testing

Institute Of Medicine Inmate Testing

Introduction

Herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries and anecdotal evidence indicates that they are generally safe for moderate consumption. However, herbs can have potentially dangerous or life-threatening side effects. Unlike prescription drugs, herbal supplements are not subjected to large-scale, rigorous testing. Therefore, it is important to consult a qualified health care provider and to thoroughly investigate the potential hazards before consuming an herbal remedy.

Hypertension

Some popular herbs can negatively affect circulation. These include peppermint, chamomile, aniseed, St. John's wort, licorice root, guarana, parsley, ginger and ginseng. These herbs constrict the blood vessels and may cause changes in blood pressure. These herbs are generally regarded as safe at low doses over a short period of time; however, the Director of the Institute for Traditional Medicine in Oregon states that they can “provoke hypertension”. Consumption of these herbs is contraindicated for individuals with conditions of the circulatory system.

Liver Injury and Veno-Occlusive Disease

The liver processes all substances taken into the body and is highly susceptible to injury. According to the University Hospital of Cincinnati more than 900 drugs, toxins and herbs have been reported to cause liver injury. The risk of liver injury while taking Kava Kava has gained attention in recent years, but long-term use of a variety of herbs can increase the risk of liver damage. For instance, the FDA reports that high intake of herbal teas is a significant risk factor for developing veno-occlusive disease, which is a blockage of the liver veins. Notably, herbal teas containing chaparral, germander, groundsel, skullcap, comfrey, mistletoe and senna are associated with veno-occlusive disease, even in individuals with no prior liver problems.