Herbal Medications Flashcards
Feverfew : Reason for Taking
arthritis
migraines
Feverfew : Action
reduces prostaglandin release = decreases inflammation
inhibits vascular smooth muscle = reduces migraines
Feverfew : Contraindications
any blood thinning medications
pregnancy
breastfeeding
Feverfew : Adverse Reactions
allergies to ragweed
Feverfew : Routes
PO
Gingko : Reason for Taking
improves circulation
Gingko : Action
protects neurons from oxidative stress
Gingko : Contraindications
bleeding disorders
seizure disorders
Gingko : Adverse Reactions
headache
dizziness
heart palpitations
constipation
upset stomach
skin irritations
Gingko : Routes
PO
St. John’s Wort : Reason for Taking
depression
menopausal symptoms
St. John’s Wort : Action
decreases serotonin receptors which affects the area of the brain associated with depression
St. John’s Wort : Contraindications
warfarin
St. John’s Wort : Adverse Reactions
agitation
anxiety
dizziness
dry mouth
photosensitivity
serotonin syndrome
St. John’s Wort : Routes
PO
topical
Echinacea : Reason for Taking
common cold
Echinacea : Action
stimulates macrophages and other cells of the innate immune system, causing them to become activated and release cytokines
Echinacea : Contraindications
warfarin
Echinacea : Adverse Reactions
GI upset
jitteriness
tachycardia
Echinacea : Routes
PO
topical
Ginseng : Reason for Taking
reduces stress
builds immunity
increases memory
Ginseng : Action
prostaglandin inhibitor
Ginseng : Contraindications
warfarin
Ginseng : Adverse Reactions
nervousness
insomnia
Ginseng : Routes
PO
Ginger : Reason fo Taking
nausea
vomitting
Ginger : Action
decreases serotonin receptors and releases antiemesis effects on the nausea center of the brain
Ginger : Contraindications
bleeding disorders
warfarin
Ginger : Adverse Reactions
burping
GI discomfort
Ginger : Routes
PO
SL
