Term
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Definition
Used to support healthy brain function and circulation
• Primary mechanism of action appears to
be vasodilation/anticoagulant properties
• May increase bleeding, especially when
taken with other anticoagulants |
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Term
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Definition
Used to support a healthy mood-- often as a remedy for depression or anxiety.
• Contains MAOI and SSRI consituents; side effects generally well tolerated.
• Strong inducer of CYP450 (3a4) pathway; numerous drug interactions including opiates and statins.
• May photosensitize some individuals |
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Term
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Definition
Used to improve stamina and general
wellness
• Contains steroidal saponosides,
micronutrients, polysaccharides
• Often has stimulant-like effects,
occasionally causes increase in blood
pressure |
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Term
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Definition
• Taken to support the immune system;
Tends to increase immune responses
• Traditionally used to maintain, rather than restore, good health; Modern users may apply differently
• Should not be taken by individuals with autoimmune conditions, or those
undergoing immunosuppressive therapy |
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Term
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Definition
• Taken to supplement levels of estrogen; often consumed as food, sometimes a major component of dietary intake
• Contains Isoflavones (phytoestrogens)
which may increase or decrease total
estrogenic activity |
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Term
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Definition
• Stimulant laxative; may lead to
dependence
• Fluid extract is regulated as a drug by FDA; May also be sold as dietary
supplement
• Occasionally misbranded as a “fiber-based laxative”; users may be unaware of risks |
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Term
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Definition
• Used effectively for short-term relief of gastric pain
• Long-term use may cause hypokalemia
and elevated aldosterone through Reninangiotensin
system
• Various other indications and uses |
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Term
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Definition
• Used for phytoestrogen content (as soy); also used as a “blood purifier” or
detoxifying agent.
• Mass-processed herbal products may
contain dicoumarol, a potent anticoagulant |
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Term
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Definition
• Effectively used as an anxiolytic, also widely used to promote sleep
• Contains Valeric acid and its derivatives, substances similar to valproic acid (propyl valeric acid)
• Side effects are usually limited to
drowsiness, vivid dreams |
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Term
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Definition
• Used to promote sleep, reduce anxiety,
and for several other indications; also
widely consumed as a beverage
• Partial agonist/antagonist interaction with benzodiazepines
• Rumors of cross-sensitivity with ragweed are unsubstantiated; serious allergic reactions are rare |
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Term
| Therapeutic approach herbal medicine |
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Definition
• Evidence supports safety and efficacy:
Recommend, continue to monitor
• Evidence supports safety, efficacy
undetermined: Consider accepting,
monitor closely
• Evidence indicates serious risk or lack of efficacy: Actively discourage |
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