A REVIEW: HERB-DRUG INTERACTIONS

Alternative medicine is becoming popular worldwide and this is clearly evident from
the rapidly escalating sales figures. The time tested and clinically proven herbal
medicines like Aloe vera, St John’s wort, Gingo biloba, Garlic, Ephedra etc., make up
most of the world’s market as for as alternative medicine is concerned. Advances in
western medicine have dramatically increased health conditions and life expectancy of
people. In spite of the latest developments in allopathic system of medicine people still
seek alternative and complimentary system. The use of herbal medicine to treat a wide
range of conditions is rising rapidly, leading to increased intake of phytochemicals.
Recent studies reveal potential fatal interactions between herbal medicines and drugs.
Herbal medicine is amongst the 16 alternative systems of medicine, which is used to
treat existing illness and also for preventive and health conditions. Herbs like Aloe
vera, St John’s wort, Ginkgo biloba, Feverfew, Ginger and Kava make most of the
market. The increasing popularity of alternative therapies, including herbal remedies is
a new challenge for health care providers because the evidence on safety for herbal
remedies incomplete, complex and confusing. The herbal medicines are certainly
associated with risks and benefits. Interaction between herbal medicines and drugs are
based on the same pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles as like drug-drug
interactions. Now present condition patients taking both ayurvedic and allopathic
treatment remain aware of potential herb-drug interaction and avoid taking medications
.which might prove hazardous to their already deteriorating health. This article
provides brief idea about pharmacist can change the present scenario and utilize their
knowledge in providing healthy information about herb-drug interaction.