Written by:
Charles W. Fetrow, Pharm.D. , Juan R. Avila, Pharm.D.
Herbs can harm as well as heal. The herbs below may pose special risks.
Bloodroot, promoted as an expectorant purgative, stimulant and plaque and cavity preventer, is used in such a range of doses that it can be dangerous. It has caused death when used to induce vomiting.
Chan su, a topical aphrodisiac also known as stone, love stone, and rockhard, has been fatal when mistakenly ingested.
Chaparral tea, claimed to be an antioxidant and pain reliever, has caused liver failure, necessitating liver transplantation.
Coltsfoot, used for respiratory problem has caused liver problems.
Comfrey, used to promote wound healing (and formerly to relieve ulcers of the bowel, stomach, liver, and gallbladder), has caused liver problems and cancer.
Indian herbal tonics can lead to lead poisoning.
Jin bu huan, an ancient Chinese sedative and analgesic, contains morphine-like substances and has caused hepatitis.
Kambucha tea, made from mushroom cultures and used as a cure-all, has caused death from a blood acid disorder.
Lobelia, used to treat respiratory congestion, has led to respiratory paralysis and death.
Ma huang, or ephedra, an ingredient in many diet pills, can cause psychotic behavior, seizures, irregular heartbeats, heart attack, stroke, and death. It's also sold under such names as Herbal Ecstasy, Cloud 9, and Ultimate Xphoria to induce a 'high' associated with illegal drugs.
Pennyroyal, used to induce menstruation and treat colds, fevers, and the flu, has caused liver failure, kidney failure, coma, and death.
Sassafras, used as a diuretic and a treatment for skin disorders and rheumatism, has caused liver damage. It has also been linked to narcotic poisoning and miscarriage. The Food and Drug Administration has banned sassafras volatile oil and the component safrole as food additives and flavor enhancers.
Yohimbe bark, used as an aphrodisiac and hallucinogen, has caused psychotic behavior.
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