Contraindications by Health Condition

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Herbal Contraindications by Health Condition

This reference lists common health conditions and herbs that should be avoided or used with caution.

Liver Disease

Avoid:

  • Kava (Piper methysticum) — Hepatotoxicity risk
  • Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) — Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids
  • Chaparral (Larrea tridentata) — Hepatotoxicity reports

Kidney Disease

Avoid:

  • Juniper (Juniperus communis) — Kidney irritant
  • Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) — Long-term use

Use with caution: Strong diuretic herbs

High Blood Pressure

Avoid:

  • Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) — Raises blood pressure
  • Ephedra (Ephedra sinica) — Stimulant
  • Ginseng (Panax ginseng) — May raise blood pressure

Bleeding Disorders

Avoid:

  • Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
  • Garlic (Allium sativum) — In therapeutic doses
  • Ginger (Zingiber officinale) — In high doses
  • Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
  • White Willow (Salix alba)

Autoimmune Conditions

Use with caution (immune-stimulating herbs):

  • Echinacea (Echinacea spp.)
  • Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)
  • Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
  • Medicinal mushrooms

Hormone-Sensitive Conditions

(Breast cancer, fibroids, endometriosis)

Avoid phytoestrogenic herbs:

  • Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
  • Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa)
  • Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)
  • Hops (Humulus lupulus)

Before Surgery (Stop 2 Weeks Before)

Discontinue:

  • All blood-thinning herbs
  • St. John’s Wort (drug interactions)
  • Valerian (may enhance anesthesia)
  • Kava (may enhance anesthesia)

Gallstones

Avoid cholagogue herbs:

  • Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
  • Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)
  • Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale)

Important Notes

  • This list is not exhaustive
  • Always take complete health history
  • When in doubt, consult additional resources
  • Individual responses vary
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