Popular herbal remedies may be riskier than you think

Here is a list of popular herbal remedies you might find at a natural health store...I will list them and their potential effects:

1. Garlic- lowers antiplatelet and LDL cholesterol. Also, may cause adverse effects if taken by patients on anticoagulants.
2. Ginkgo biloba- can increase anti coagulation. May cause adverse effectsin patients predisposed to seizures.
3. Green tea-popular for it's anti oxidant properties. But, it can affect the absorption of asthma mediations and stimulatns such as pseudophedrine and atropine. It may also increase blood pressure.
4. St. John's wort- used to treat mild depression. But, it may adversely interact with MAO inhibitors and anti depressants or it may sped the absorption of other drugs such as chemotherapy.
5. Valerian- used to treat insomina but may heighten the effects of prescription medications used for insomnia or anxiety. Can also cause a paradoxical reaction.

So, be careful and check with your doctor before taking these remedies...

Starbucks may be on to something

Many recent medical studies support the contention that coffee is the "elixir of the Gods"... Apparently, up to six cups of coffee a day may help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, alcohol related cirrhoses and liver cancer.

Coffee is a rich source of anti oxidants and thus my reduce the inflammation association with certain disease states.

It is interesting to note that caffeine isnt a factor as decaf coffee apparently had the same benefits.

Maybe if we push the envelope...we can get medicare to pay for our starbucks card...(dont hold your breath)...