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Herbal Remedies that May Do More Harm than Good in Older Adults

Nutritional supplements like herbal remedies are used by millions of older adults every day. After all, the ancient Chinese knew for centuries the power of herbs in enhancing health and immunity. Herbal nutritional supplements can also help you catch those zzzz's that have been eluding you as well as boost memory function and add those essential nutrients that you cannot always get in your diet.

There is one predicament with herbal remedies: not everyone is fully informed of the potential side effects that can occur, especially if you are taking prescribed medication for certain health conditions. Mixing herbal remedies and prescription drugs can cause dangerous problems. In addition, your herbal remedies can also cause problems when you have surgery or other medical procedures. The bottom line is that when you visit your doctor, be up front with all supplements that you take from vitamins and minerals to natural herbal remedies.

A few herbal remedies are more popular than others in the over age 50 crowds when it comes to boosting health. These popular remedies do have many positive benefits but they also have some serious side effects, depending on the person taking them. Therefore, read on for a short primer on some of the pros and cons of the more popular herbal remedies being consumed today:

1. Gingko Biloba - This is the most popular herb used to boost memory. It does so by increasing the circulation of the blood, thereby boosting oxygen levels to your brain.

* The side effects to gingko could have dangerous repercussions if you are on any type of anti-clotting medications; an increase in bleeding may occur.

2. Echinacea - Many people believe in the power of Echinacea in boosting the immune system making you less likely to catch the flu or even a cold. In fact, this herb is known to promote healing too.

* The side effect to Echinacea is swelling or inflammation of the liver. Usually this occurs if you are taking certain medications like anabolic steroids for arthritis.

3. Feverfew - Migraine sufferers often take feverfew to ease their tremendous migraine headaches. Feverfew is also known to ease the swelling and pain of arthritis, allergies and other rheumatic diseases.

* The major side effect to feverfew is bleeding, especially if you are on blood thinners for heart or stroke conditions.

4. Ginseng - Ginseng is a great herb for increasing your focus and concentration as well as boosts your stamina physically.

* Your prescribed blood thinners could lose effectiveness and you might experience bleeding. In addition, your high blood pressure may increase.

5. Garlic - A favorite in many foods, garlic also comes in a supplemental form. It's a popular herb in helping to lower cholesterol as well as blood pressure and triglycerides in the blood.

* Side effects most likely occur in hypertension patients who take blood thinners aka anti-clotting medications.

There is no need to totally discontinue the herbs you are taking. However, you will want to compare the potential side effects against the medications you are currently taking for health issues. You could prevent serious complications if you research first. In addition, be sure to speak with your doctor for advice on these herbal remedies as well.