Mint & Hyssop Herbal Apothecary, LLC

 

Heart Disease

Avoid: Licorice root, yohimbe, and ephedra. These can raise blood pressure, interfere with heart rhythm, or worsen cardiovascular symptoms.

Diabetes

Avoid: Aloe vera (when taken internally), ginseng, and licorice root. These herbs can affect blood sugar levels, potentially causing fluctuations or interactions with diabetes medications.
 

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Avoid: Licorice root and ephedra. Licorice can increase blood pressure, and ephedra can cause spikes in both heart rate and blood pressure.
 

Chronic Kidney Disease

Avoid: Parsley, dandelion root, and horsetail. These herbs can be diuretic, stressing the kidneys or leading to electrolyte imbalances.
 

Asthma

Avoid: Echinacea and chamomile. These may cause allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with asthma or those sensitive to ragweed.
 

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Avoid: Lobelia, ephedra, and eucalyptus oil. Lobelia and ephedra can affect respiration, while eucalyptus oil might irritate the lungs if inhaled.
 

Arthritis

Avoid: Echinacea and licorice root. Echinacea may worsen autoimmune symptoms, and licorice can interact with corticosteroid medications used for arthritis.
 

Chronic Liver Disease

Avoid: Kava and comfrey. These herbs can be toxic to the liver, especially in people with preexisting liver conditions.
 

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Avoid: Peppermint and spearmint. Although they can soothe the digestive tract in some cases, they may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, worsening reflux.
 

Cancer (especially hormone-sensitive cancers)

Avoid: Red clover, dong quai, and black cohosh. These herbs contain phytoestrogens, which may interfere with hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast or ovarian cancer.

 

Pregnancy

Avoid: Pennyroyal, mugwort, dong quai, blue cohosh, and black cohosh. These herbs can stimulate uterine contractions, increase the risk of miscarriage, or interfere with fetal development. Other herbs, like licorice root, may affect hormone levels or raise blood pressure.

Consulting with a healthcare provider or an experienced herbalist before using any herbs is essential, as individual health conditions, medications, and sensitivities vary. Pregnant individuals should always consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements, as even mild herbs can have unintended effects during pregnancy.