Main Research Findings

There is a lack of basic knowledge on the part of both clinicians and patients as to the indications for use and safety of herbal medicines in pregnancy and lactation. 2 .

Oral administration of conjugated equine estrogens (CEE) with and without the synthetic progestin medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) in postmenopausal women is associated with side-effects that include increased risk of stroke and breast cancer. . The current evidence that transdermal administration of estradiol may provide a safer alternative to orally administered CEE is reviewed. Transdermally administered estradiol has been shown to be an efficacious treatment for hot flushes possibly without the increase in blood clotting that is associated with administration of oral CEE. .

The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), including the ingestion of natural health products (NHPS), is common among cancer patients. Of concern to clinicians and patients alike is the possibility that cam, used concurrently with biomedical therapy, may interact poorly with that therapy, especially chemotherapy and radiotherapy. .

Oral herpes labialis, more commonly known as cold sores, are a common encountered viral infection involving herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1). Although relatively benign, these lesions can be both unsightly and clinically difficult to manage. 1 .

Isofraxidin (7-hydroxy-6, 8-dimethoxy coumarin) (IF) is a hydroxy coumarin with several biological and pharmacological activities. .

To ascertain the recommendations, training and education of health food store employees and determine how they communicate the costs, benefits and risks associated with natural health products for the HIV/AIDS community. 4 .

Introduction: Leaves of the Australian tea tree plant Melaleuca alternifolia were used traditionally by First Nations Australians for treating wounds, burns, and insect bites. Tea tree oil, the essential oil steam-distilled from M. alternifolia, is well-known for its medicinal properties, the evidence for most applications however is limited. This review aimed to critically appraise evidence from clinical trials examining the therapeutic efficacy and safety of tea tree oil on outcomes. 5 .

We report the case of a child who sustained partial thickness burns from a garlic-petroleum jelly plaster, which had been applied at the direction of a naturopathic physician. .

Red yeast rice, a commercially available food supplement known to reduce serum cholesterol, has been repeatedly advocated as alternative therapy for hypercholesterolemic patients that refuse statins, cannot tolerate statin therapy's side effects, or request a “naturopathic” medicine. .

Niacin is widely available over the counter (OTC). We sought to determine the safety of 500 mg immediate release niacin, when healthy individuals use them as directed. 3 .

Reasons for Side Effects

Natural health products may have a higher risk of side effects because their ingredients and content may vary from product to product. . Natural health products may also interact with conventional medications. .

Common Side Effects

Skin irritation

Tea tree oil can cause skin irritation if used in high concentrations. 5 . A mixture of garlic and petroleum jelly can cause burns in children. .

Gastrointestinal problems

Red yeast rice can cause gastrointestinal problems. .

Liver effects

Red yeast rice can have an impact on the liver. .

Other side effects

Oral estrogen preparations can have side effects such as increased risk of stroke and breast cancer. . Niacin can cause flushing, a side effect that includes facial redness and sweating. 3 .

Countermeasures for Side Effects

Skin irritation

Tea tree oil can be used in lower concentrations or diluted to reduce skin irritation. 5 . Before using a mixture of garlic and petroleum jelly, apply a small amount to the skin to check for irritation. .

Gastrointestinal problems

Red yeast rice can be started in small doses and gradually increased to reduce gastrointestinal problems. .

Liver effects

It is important to consult a doctor and have a liver function test before using red yeast rice. .

Other side effects

Niacin can be taken with food to reduce flushing. 3 .

Comparison between Studies

Commonalities in Studies

Many studies have shown that the safety and effectiveness of natural health products have not been fully verified. , , 5 . Studies have also shown that natural health products may interact with conventional medications. .

Differences in Studies

Conclusions about the safety and effectiveness of natural health products can vary from study to study. 3 . This is because the products, methods, and participants involved in the studies differ. 3 .

Notes on Application to Real Life

Because the safety and effectiveness of natural health products have not been fully verified, it is important to consult a doctor before using them. , . Natural health products may interact with conventional medications, so it is important to consult a doctor and report any medications you are taking. .

Limitations of Current Research

Not enough research has been conducted on natural health products. , 5 . Therefore, information on the safety and effectiveness of natural health products is limited. , 5 .

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed to clarify the safety and effectiveness of natural health products. , 5 . In particular, research on the interaction between natural health products and conventional medications is needed. .

Conclusion

Because the safety and effectiveness of natural health products have not been fully verified, it is important to consult a doctor before using them. , . Particular caution is required during pregnancy and lactation or when undergoing medical treatment. 2 , .