A number of herbal supplements can cause heart problems, either by themselves or when combined with other remedies. So before taking any supplement, you should read the label carefully and consult your healthcare provider. Some ingredients, such as green tea and caffeine, may cause an irregular heartbeat in large doses. The stimulant ma huang (ephedra), banned by the Food and Drug Administration, has been shown to raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. St John's wort and ginseng can increase heart rate and blood pressure.
Certain herbs can also interact with heart medications. For instance, dong quai, alfalfa, ginger, garlic, fenugreek, bilberry and gingko biloba can increase bleeding when taken with blood thinners. These effects may put heart patients in danger.
A number of herbal supplements can cause heart problems, either by
themselves or when combined with other remedies. So before taking
any supplement, you should read the label carefully and consult
your healthcare provider. Some ingredients,...
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Stacy Wiegman answered:A number of herbal supplements can cause heart problems, either by themselves or when combined with other remedies. So before taking any supplement, you should read the label carefully and consult your healthcare provider. Some ingredients, such as green tea and caffeine, may cause an irregular heartbeat in large doses. The stimulant ma huang (ephedra), banned by the Food and Drug Administration, has been shown to raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. St John's wort and ginseng can increase heart rate and blood pressure.
