Concurrent use of herbs with therapeutic drugs increases the potential of herb-drug interactions. The clinical importance of herb-drug interactions is associated with the particular herb, drug, and patient profile. Herbs are potentially potent as they affect body functions. The use herbal medicine and supplements can be risky as they are not subject to review by the FDA. In this chapter, we make an attempt to discuss the possible reasons for toxic effects, types of toxicities, some reported cases of toxicities involving the use of herbal medicine alone, and some herb-drug interactions. In addition to this, possible ways to reduce toxic effects of herbal medicines have also been discussed.
Part of the book: Toxicology