Definition of Drug - Herb Interaction
Pharmaceutical drugs, including over-the-counter medications, can interact with compounds found in medicinally active herbs. These drug-herb interactions are relatively common and can be beneficial or dangerous.
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Synergistic Effects
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Many herbs potentiate the effects of synthetic drugs. For example, the pineapple-sourced enzyme bromelain can enhance the effectiveness of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs).
Decreased Effects
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Certain herbs may inhibit the effectiveness of prescription drugs. The popular immunostimulant goldenseal can increase platelet activity, thereby diminishing the effects of anticoagulants like warfarin.
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Overdose-Like Symptoms
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Herbs and drugs that contain similar compounds can cause overdose-like symptoms. Saint John's Wort, which may act as a serotonin-selective reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) can cause serotonin syndrome---life-threatening condition---in patients taking other SSRIs like Paxil.
Considerations
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Anyone taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs on a regular basis should consult a qualified expert before taking any herbal supplement. Simple precautions can prevent life-threatening drug-herb interactions.
Misconceptions
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Unless a physician has directed otherwise, patients taking pharmaceutical drugs do not need to avoid the culinary use of common herbs and spices. High-dose extracts---not seasonings---are responsible for almost all drug-herb interactions.
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