CAUTION WITH HERBS
People choose to get into herbalism generally for the health benefits and knowledge of living directly from the land and the growing flora. However, not all natural plants are safe to consume. Some are downright deadly, like in the previous module, and others need more consideration based on the health of the recipient. Below, we’re covering some common herbs to avoid based on the intake of medicine or your health condition.
Medical Conditions
BLEEDING RISKS
If you are at risk for bleeding disorders or take blood thinning medication, we highly recommend avoiding: Ginger, Feverfew, Evening Primrose, Garlic, and Ginkgo Biloba.SEIZURE RISKS
If you are at risk for seizures and have epilepsy, we highly recommend avoiding: Evening PrimroseIMMUNOSUPPRESSANTS
If you are on immunosuppressant drugs, we recommend avoiding these herbs that can counteract your prescriptions: Echinacea, Ginseng, Alfalfa, Licorice Root, Astragalus.ST. JOHN’S WORT
We recommend not taking St. John’s Wort if you are on any of the following medication: Oral Contraceptives, Asthma Drugs, Warfarin, Antidepressants, Protease Inhibitors.
Heart Conditions
If you are on any heart medications, there are certain herbs you want to avoid as they can have an adverse effect. These list is not a complete list, but those commonly known to avoid in use while on heart medication.
DO NOT USE:
Garlic
Aloe Vera
Saw Palmetto
Hawthorn
Bilberry
St. John’s Worth
Yohimbe
Ginkgo Biloba
Alfalfa
Echinacea
Black Cohosh
Licorice Root
Pregnancy
Herbs can have a variety of negative effects for women who are pregnant or nursing. These effects can range from hormonal disruption to early contractions. Below, you’ll find a list of herbs we recommend avoiding while pregnant or nursing.
DO NOT USE:
Yarrow
Comfrey
Pennyroyal
Black Cohosh
Mistletoe
Angelica
Rosemary
Feverfew
Catnip
Mugwort
Basil
Goldenseal