9 Contraindicated in pregnancy. Hawthorn Crataegus oxyacantha Thought to help reduce angina attacks by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Should not be taken with digoxin as it may cause profound bradycardia. Hypotension may result, especially when taken concomitantly with antihypertensive or diuretic medications. 10 Licorice Glycyrrhiza glabra Used to treat coughs, colds, and peptic ulcers.
High doses can lead to increased blood pressure, water retention and potassium loss.
Should not be used with diuretics as it could lead to further loss of potassium. May interact with antihypertensive medications and make hypertension difficult to control. St. John's Wort Hypericom perforatum Used as an anti-depressant. When combined with SSRIs, possibility of serotonin syndrome. 12 Should not be taken in conjunction with other anti- depressant medications.