Although data on effectiveness is mixed, most studies indicate that saw palmetto is at least safe and has few drug interactions to be concerned about. Boldo was traditionally used for dyspepsia, digestive disturbances, constipation, and rheumatism. Recent research has shown boldine, one of the major active components from Boldo, to be a potent antioxidant [35]. A woman taking warfarin together with 10 drops of Boldo and one capsule of Fenugreek showed a modest rise in her INR from 2 to 3.4. While the research is limited, there is some evidence to support the use of rholdiola for managing symptoms of depression.
For this reason, people with bipolar disorder may not want to take the supplement at all or do so in very small quantities under the guidance of a physician. Likewise, people with anxiety may need to start at lower doses to see how they respond. Still, it is impossible to know fully how safe the supplement is because the research is fragmented. The safety and effectiveness of the herb may also vary across differents brands or extracts. Another study found that rhodiola had fewer side effects than sertraline. The researchers suggested the herb might be an effective alternative option for people who cannot tolerate traditional antidepressants.
An overview of the clinical data regarding herb-warfarin interactions was conducted in this paper, highlighting clinical effects, severity of documented interaction, and quality of clinical evidence. Herbs defined as highly probable (Cranberry, Soya, St John’s wort, and Danshen) and probable (coenzyme Q10, Chinese Angelica, Ginger) are strongly suggested to be avoided from concomitant use with warfarin. For herbs defined as possible and doubtful, although insufficient evidences supporting the interaction yet, for safety reason, it is recommended to closely monitor INR in patients taking warfarin. Patients and physicians are advised to use herbal medicines within a safety dosage. Qualified and standardized herbal products such as EGb 761 are recommended for scientific researches, especially for clinical studies.
However, these side effects usually occur when turmeric is taken in higher doses. Turmeric has gained popularity as both a flavorful spice and a health supplement that can be used for a wide variety of conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, high cholesterol, heartburn, and even cancer. The herb licorice may lower warfarin levels and can add to digoxin’s effects.
That may result in not considering them as medicine or medicinal products and missing to report them to health professionals, if not explicitly asked [5,6,10,11]. When patients use herbal medicinal products (HMP) or herbal supplements conjointly with conventional drugs, this bears the risk of unrecognized potential interactions. Garlic has been used for respiratory infection and cardiovascular disease. In vitro studies suggested that Garlic inhibit CYP2C9, CYP3A, and CYP2D6 [69, 70]. Studies in rats suggested Garlic that inhibited CYP2E1 and induced CYP2C9 [40]. However, clinical studies found no significant effects of Garlic on cytochrome P450 isoenzymes [40].
Many people are turning to natural remedies to improve their health and well-being, and two popular supplements on the market are turmeric and saw palmetto. But can you take them together? Let’s explore this question in more detail.
Turmeric Benefits
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric has been studied for its potential benefits in reducing inflammation, improving brain function, and even lowering the risk of heart disease.
Saw Palmetto Benefits
Saw palmetto is a plant that produces berries, which have been used medicinally for centuries. It is most commonly known for its potential benefits in supporting prostate health. Saw palmetto is often used by men to help alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as frequent urination and difficulty emptying the bladder.
Taking Turmeric and Saw Palmetto Together
Both turmeric and saw palmetto have their own unique health benefits, but can they be taken together? The good news is that there is no known interaction between turmeric and saw palmetto, so it is generally safe to take them together. In fact, some people may find that combining these two supplements provides even greater health benefits.
FAQs
- Can I take turmeric and saw palmetto if I have any medical conditions?
- It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.
- Are there any side effects of taking turmeric and saw palmetto together?
- While both turmeric and saw palmetto are generally considered safe for most people, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as stomach upset or allergic reactions. It is important to start with a low dose and monitor how your body responds.
In conclusion, taking turmeric and saw palmetto together is generally safe and may even provide synergistic health benefits. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to your routine, especially if you have any medical conditions or concerns. Listen to your body and pay attention to how you feel when taking these supplements to ensure they are benefiting your overall health.
