Herbs & medications: why interactions matter.

• Enzyme changes: St. John’s wort can speed up liver enzymes that clear many medications.
• Blood thinning: Herbs like ginkgo, garlic, and high-dose ginger may add to anticoagulant effects.
• Blood sugar and pressure: Some herbs can lower levels and intensify related medications.

If you use prescription medications, have organ transplants, clotting disorders, chronic conditions, or upcoming surgery, loop in your prescribing clinician before adding herbs.

• Track what you take, including doses and timing.
• Introduce one change at a time so you can see cause and effect.
• Stop and seek help if you notice new symptoms, bleeding, dizziness, or major changes in blood pressure or sugar.

Choose caution and professional guidance. The safest path is checking interactions with a clinician or pharmacist who knows your medications and health history.