• “Natural” herbal cream contains highly potent steroid: works wonders for skin, not so much for your baby

    Health Headlines Commentary for March 28, 2017 Source: Stop using PureCare Herbal Cream skin treatment, Health Canada urges Reference: Unauthorized health product “PureCare Herbal Cream” may pose serious health risks

  • Prescription drugs and herbal remedies follow the same science of drug interactions and can negatively affect health outcomes

    Madely Health Headlines Commentary for November 5, 2012 [display_podcast] Source: Mixing drugs and herbal remedies may pose a major health risk, researchers warn Reference: Evaluation of documented drug interactions and contraindications associated with herbs and dietary supplements: a systematic literature review

  • Study reviews the drug interactions between cardiac medications and herbal products

    Madely Health Headlines Commentary for February 2, 2010 [display_podcast] Source: Hidden Dangers of Herbal Meds Reviewed Reference: Use of Herbal Products and Potential Interactions in Patients With Cardiovascular Diseases Comment: There is excellent web site that reviews the scientific evidence for the efficacy of herbal remedies from an independent assessment perspective. It also evaluates the…

  • A closer look at St. John's Wort

    Known as Fuga Demonum or Devil’s Scourge, its original use was to ward off evil spirits and prevent demonic possession. Sixth century Gaelic legend makes reference to St. Columba who carried a piece of the flowering plant in deference to St. John the Baptist around whose birthday the flower would bloom.

  • Herbal Reality: Valerian

    Do herbal preparations really live up to their claims? There are many anecdotal reports that they do make a difference and help people with a variety of ailments. Many websites purport to give information but, for the average consumer, it can be difficult to separate the facts from bias.

  • Herbal remedies can work, but they are not always safe

    Herbal remedies are medical concern. A substantial minority of people use them. Indeed, many people do not tell their doctor about herbal medication use unless directly asked. This is not a recipe for good comprehensive health assessment. Some herbal preparations will adversely interact with prescription medications.