A Comprehensive Guide to Drug-Herb-Nutrient Interactions (Hardcover)

This is a comprehensive, detailed and evidence-based guide to the interactions between drugs and herbs, drugs and nutrients and selected herbs and nutrients, including foods and dietary factors. The material looks in detail at the mechanisms of interaction, and the studies and research which show or imply possible interactions, both negative and synergistic. The book covers: 167 generic drugs; 219 drugs by trade names; 46 herbs; 8 herb groups; and 97 nutrients. For healthcare professionals whose patients are taking herbs and nutritional supplements, this book will help them to answer, with confidence and in full knowledge of the research facts, questions such as: can St. John's Wort and Prozac be taken at the same time? Do vitamin C and antioxidants interfere with chemotherapy? Is licorice root safe with hypertension? Are calcium supplements a risk while taking digoxin? Is Echinacea safe in autoimmune conditions? The information within each entry covers herb, nutrient, substance and diet affecting drug performance and drug toxicity, either negatively or supportively. The mechanism of the interaction is discussed, and the research available is assessed in detail. Where herb constituents may be inferred to have a negative effect, but no research yet exists, this information is included. In the herbal entries, clinical information relating to therapeutic actions, dosage, constituents, pharmacology, toxicity and contraindications is also listed. Not only are drug interactions covered but, where possible, nutrient-herb interactions are also discussed. Clinical data is also given on drug-induced nutritional depletion patterns; safe and effective supportive strategies are offered. Finally, extensive references are given at the end of each entry, and the key references are annotated with a descriptive summary of the research and conclusions.