Herbal
supplement
What might it
help?
Precautions and potential side effects
aloe vera
• acne
• skin injuries, such
as burns
• psoriasis
• digestive
problems
• Topical use may cause burning, itching, and
eczema.
• Oral aloe latex use may cause abdominal pain and
cramping.
• Oral aloe leaf extract may increase
acute hepatitis risk.
black cohosh
menopause
symptoms
• stomach upset, cramping, headache, rash, vaginal
spotting, and weight gain
• may lead to liver damage
echinacea
common cold
prevention
may causeTrusted Source nausea or stomach pain
garlic
high cholesterol
• Oral supplements may the risk of bleeding, so they
may be unsafe for people taking anticoagulants, such
as warfarin, and those needing surgery.
• may interact with saquinavir, a drug used to
treat HIV
ginkgo
• age-related
dementia
• schizophrenia
• anxiety
• eye health
• peripheral artery
disease
• premenstrual
syndrome
• may cause headache, stomach upset,
dizziness, palpitations, constipation, skin reactions
• may increase risk of bleeding
ginger
• mild stomach
upset
• nausea from
pregnancy and
chemotherapy
• menstrual cramps
abdominal discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, and
mouth and throat irritation, particularly in large
doses
hawthorn
• low blood
pressure
• anxiety
• kidney issues
• heart disease
• digestion
• dizziness, nausea, and digestive symptoms
• may interact in a harmful way with heart
medications
licorice root
• digestive
symptoms
• atopic dermatitis
• sore throat
• for people with high blood pressure, heart disease,
or kidney disease
• may increase blood pressure and
decrease potassium levels
• in large doses, may cause premature birth and
infant health problems after birth
milk thistle
• hepatitis
• type 2 diabetes
• digestive issues
• may cause allergic reactions in people allergic to
marigold, chamomile, or daisies
passionflower
• sleep problems
• anxiety
• drowsiness, confusion, and uncoordinated
movement
• unsuitable for use during pregnancy, as it may
induce contractions
peppermint oil
• irritable bowel
syndrome
• abdominal pain
• indigestion
• tension headaches
• cracked nipples
• nausea, heartburn, abdominal pain, and dry mouth
• may cause skin rashes and irritation if a person
uses it topically
saw palmetto
benign prostatic
hyperplasia
Source digestive symptoms or headache
soy
• high cholesterol
• menopausal hot
flashes
• high blood
pressure
• bone health
• constipation or diarrhea
• may affect thyroid function in people with iron
deficiency
turmeric
• digestive issues
• bone health
•liver injury
• may cause mild dermatitis and stomach upset
valerian
• menopause
symptoms
• anxiety
• sleep problems
headache, stomach upset, excitability, uneasiness,
and heart issues