While best known for its antimicrobial effect on the body, it also increases the secretion of digestive acids in the stomach. For anyone with stomach or duodenal ulcers, this would be an incorrect herb to take. Pregnant women should not use Goldenseal. Licorice is an extremely versatile herb that is appropriate for almost everyone except those with high blood pressure. There is a deglycerated form of licorice that should be used in these cases.
Some herbs can raise blood pressure or interact negatively with other medications.
For more complicated and chronic medical conditions, especially when both conventional and herbal medicine are being used, it is best to get the aid of someone experienced in this form of medicine. Then you can have the benefit of the most current research in botanical medicine and the experience of someone who also has a medical background.