Author/Editor		Mlinarič, Aleš
Title		Neželeni učinki nekaterih pogosto uporabljanih drog
Translated title		Side effects of some commonly used herbal drugs
Type		članek
Source		In: Zbornik referatov 13. simpozij Zdravila naravnega izvora; 2001 jun 14; Ljubljana. Ljubljana: Slovensko farmacevtsko društvo,
Publication year		2001
Volume		str. 87-94
Language		slo
Abstract		Increasing use of herbal drugs and phytopharmaceuticals presents certain risk to the patient. Risk is enhanced in the case of self-treatment, based mostly on lay and misleading information. Great number of commonly used herbs in Slovenian traditional medicine contains substances that may cause side effects by long term intake. Article presents a review of side effects of selected herbs according to the structure of their active compounds. Herbs that are common in Slovenian folk medicine or present a part of imported herbal products are chosen. Certain plants contain highly toxic compounds that can be in some cases present in herbal remedies (extracts of autumn crocus, ephedra and greater celandine). Commonly used in Slovenia are herbs containing hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids and anthranoid glycosides where chronic toxicity after a long term intake may appear. Toxicity of sesquiterpen lactones in arnica is mentioned as well as presence of toxic thujone in wormwood and sage. Some herbs contain phototoxic substances that may cause skin lesions in combination with UV rays. Mistletoe, commonly used in herbal mixtures against distrubances of blood pressure, may have interactions with sinthetic drugs. Herbs that may influence hormonal activity are described. Special table with herbs which are best avoided or used with caution during pregnancy is included.
Descriptors		PHARMACOGNOSY PLANT EXTRACTS SELF MEDICATION PYRROLIZIDINE ALKALOIDS SESQUITERPENES TERPENES DERMATITIS, PHOTOTOXIC PREGNANCY