Notes on Complementary and Alternative Therapies

Vocabulary flashcards covering CAM concepts, DSHEA, CGMP, common herbs, hazards, and consumer guidance from the CAM notes.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)

A broad range of medical practices not typically part of conventional medicine; includes botanicals, nutritional products, and herbal supplements

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)

A U.S. government center that provides information on CAM and lists current clinical trials with herbal products.

Dietary supplement

Product intended to supplement the diet, containing one or more dietary ingredients, intended to be taken by mouth, and labeled as a dietary supplement.

Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA)

U.S. law defining dietary supplements and outlining labeling and regulation requirements for these products.

Label components of dietary supplements

Required label elements: name of supplement, amount, nutrition labeling, ingredient list, and name/place of manufacturer, packer, or distributor.

Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs)

Standards requiring that supplement labels declare quality and strength, that products be free from contaminants, and that only products meeting criteria receive a seal of approval.

Asian ginseng

Herbal remedy that is claimed to increase resistance to environmental stress and may improve overall well-being.

• stimulates immunity and slows affects of aging

• SE: breast tenderness, menstrual irregularities, high BP

• DE: warfarin, antidepressants, statin, Ca blockers NO DIABETES

Chamomile

Herbal remedy known for potential relief of anxiety, sleeplessness, digestive issues, skin conditions, and oral ulcers;

• side effects can include mild allergic reactions, dizziness, nausea,.

Echinacea

Herb used for colds and flu; purported to stimulate the immune system; potential side effects include GI effects and allergic reactions.

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Herb used to lower cholesterol and blood pressure and to reduce heart disease risk; may have side effects like heartburn, upset stomach, body odor, and decreased blood clotting.

DE: saquinavir

Ginger

Herb used for pregnancy nausea, motion sickness, diarrhea; may relieve pain and swelling; side effects can include gas, bloating, heartburn, and nausea.

Ginkgo biloba

Herb used for anxiety, allergies, dementia/memory issues, eye problems, tinnitus, and peripheral artery disease; side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, GI upset, increased bleeding, and allergic reactions.

• DE: anticoagulants

Lavender

Herb used for anxiety, depression, and digestive symptoms; burns; limited high-quality evidence supports its effectiveness.

Saw palmetto

Herb used for urinary symptoms from benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), chronic pelvic pain, and hair loss; side effects include digestive problems and headaches.

St. John’s wort

Herb used for depression, menopausal symptoms, ADHD, somatic symptom disorder, and OCD; side effects include anxiety, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, fatigue, light sensitivity, GI problems, and sexual dysfunction.

• DE: antidepressants, BC pills, cyclosporine,

Turmeric

Herb used for heartburn, stomach ulcers, gallstones, inflammation, and cancer; high doses may cause nausea or diarrhea.

Herb-drug interactions

Possible interactions between herbs and prescription or OTC drugs that can be dangerous or life-threatening; important to assess before use.

Discontinue herbal therapy before surgery

Recommendation to stop herbal therapies 2–3 weeks prior to surgery to avoid interactions with anesthesia and bleeding.

Consumer guidance for CAM use

Do not take herbs with prescription drugs without consulting a health care provider; avoid use during pregnancy or nursing; do not give to infants/young children; follow label instructions; discontinue if side effects occur; be aware that herbs may contain multiple compounds not listed on the label.