Herbs and Surgery

One of the most overplayed myths concerning herbal preparations is that they are guaranteed to be safe. Truth is, though considered extremely safe, there *are* side effects that have been reported and verified by the FDA (Food & Drug Administration) of the United States.

From January 1993 to 1998 (around October), there were over 1000 reports of untoward reactions associated with preparations containing herbals. Compare that figure with the year 1996 when the FDA received approximately 160,000 reports of reactions to over-the-counter and prescriptive preparations. Based on the comparison, herbals are infinitely safer to take as a treatment or adjunct to treatment of many conditions afflicting the human body.

If, however, you have been scheduled for any surgical procedure, a certain amount of caution should be observed concerning the ingestion of herbals. Dr. John Neeld, president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) says this:

"These products (the herbals) could pose a serious health risk if taken prior to surgery."

Anesthesiologists have reported significant alterations in heart rate or/and blood pressure in some surgery patients following intake of herbals prior to the procedure. There are several problematical herbal products to take not of.

* St. John's Wort (an herbal used for anxiety and as an antidepressant)may intensify of prolong the effects of some narcotic products, and some anesthetics.

* Ginko Biloba (used as a memory aid and circulation booser) might reduce the number of platelets, thus interfering with the clotting time of the blood.

* Ginsing (all origins such as Siberian, etc.)is used to boost the energy levelsnd increase vitality. Prior to surgery it might lead to high blood pressure and rapid heartbeat.

* Feverfew (used mainly in migraine conditions) can interfere with blood clotting.

At an annual meeting of the ASA, a survey was presented concerning herbals and it showed that 170 of 979 patients interviewed admitted to taking at least one herbal. That's 17%! Of thos taking herbals, 77 individuals were taking two or more.

Other studies disclose the fact that most physicians haven't the faintest idea their patients are taking herbal products. Statistics are rare and usually understated, since patients rarely discuss their non-medicinal intake.

The ASA has offered this advice for those planning surgery. Discontinue the use of herbals for at least 2 to 3 weeks prior to surgery. It is also advisable for the patient to show his/her surgeon whatever over-the-counter medicines that they may be taking. This would assist the physician/surgeon in giving proper advice and adjusting the procedure to accomodate any possible side effects.

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