Herbal Medications Part One

Herbal medication has skyrocketed in popularity over the last decade with annual sales in excess of $1.5 billion. Many physicians are reluctant to endorse these products given their general lack of stringent FDA control, possible adverse effects or interactions with other medications and lack of safety data. The following represents an overview of several of the more popular agents on the market; much of the information provided is based on randomized placebo controlled trials, which essentially means they have been tested against sugar pills.
Echinacea: Many studies have investigated the use of Echinacea in the treatment of the common cold, but none have ever proven its efficacy. The mechanism by which it works is unknown. It should not be used beyond eight weeks due to continued stimulation of the immune system. Those with HIV, tuberculosis, multiple sclerosis or other immune disease like lupus also should not use it
Gingko: Gingko leaf extract, taken from the oldest living species in the world (gingko tree) has been used to treat dementia, headache, hearing loss, the symptoms of peripheral artery disease or PAD, and potentially improve memory. Doses of 120-240 milligrams per day have been demonstrated in clinical trials to improve cognition in Alzheimer’s dementia. One small study (202 patients) showed improvement in cognitive scores that were comparable with the Alzheimer’s drug, aricept. Studies also have confirmed improved walking distance in those with severe peripheral arterial disease. Gingko is generally considered to be safe with only occasional complaints of headache, dizziness or abdominal distress. It should be pointed out that gingko can contribute to bleeding abnormalities in those already taking blood thinners (i.e. aspirin or coumadin).
Ginseng: Ginseng has been used for medicinal purposes for over 2000 years on the Asian mainland. It is felt that it has a positive effect on stamina and resistance to stress, improving both memory and physical endurance. It has shown some effect on glucose metabolism in diabetics with average drops in blood sugar of 15-20 points. Average dosing of Asian ginseng is 200-600 milligrams per day for one to three months with a two-week ginseng free interval between cycles. Side effects include diarrhea, euphoria, insomnia and vaginal bleeding among others. The next segment in this short series will delve into several other over-the-counter supplements that have become extremely popular throughout the United States and future articles will focus on several of the lesser known (but not uncommon) agents that are available.

Do you have any medical questions or concerns that you would like addressed? You can contact Dr. Spence by email at panhandledailydose@hotmail.com or by mailing your question to Daily Dose, P.O. Box 6107, Marianna, FL 32446.