Bilberries: Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)
Is a dark blue berry also known as the European blueberry. It has dark, juicy flesh, and is similar in flavour to a blueberry. Bilberry has been used for centuries, both medicinally and as a food in jams and pies. It is related to the blueberry and is native to Northern Europe. Bilberry fruit contains potent chemical compounds known as anthocyanidins, plant pigments that have excellent antioxidant properties. Bilberry is rich in many other nutrients and beneficial compounds including Vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant. They scavenge damaging particles in the body known as free radicals, helping prevent or reverse damage to cells.
Bilberries are linked to reduced inflammation and blood sugar levels, as well as may improve brain function, fight off bacteria, and improve digestion.
Bilberry fruit and extract are considered generally safe. However, if there is a sensitivity or allergy to tannins then avoid bilberry.
Hibiscus: (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
The dried red flowers and calyx of the hibiscus plant have been used in herbal infusions by many cultures around the world for centuries. It is known by different names the world over. It is called belchanda in Nepal, sorrel in parts of the Caribbean, gra jiap in Thailand, chin baung in Burma, and gonguru in parts of India.
There are numerous health benefits associated with hibiscus believed to be due to compounds called anthocyanins with their antioxidant effects.
Like other herbal teas, hibiscus tea may interfere with certain medications. These include antihypertensive drugs in which the coadministration of hibiscus may cause hypotension (low blood pressure). Similarly, the combination of high-dose hibiscus supplements and diabetes medications could potentially lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). If you are pregnant do not drink hibiscus
Always speak with your doctor before embarking on any home remedy, including something as innocuous as hibiscus tea. Doing so may help you avoid interactions and side effects
Like other herbal teas, hibiscus tea may interfere with certain medications. These include antihypertensive drugs in which the coadministration of hibiscus may cause hypotension (low blood pressure). Similarly, the combination of high-dose hibiscus supplements and diabetes medications could potentially lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Dandelion: (Taraxacum officinale)
Dandelion is grown in many parts of the world, and from root to flower, it is known for its medicinal properties. It is loaded with antioxidants betacarotene and polyphenols.
Dandelion root has been used historically to soothe minor digestive ailments and improve appetite.
Dandelion has also been found to interact with certain medications, including diuretics, lithium, and Cipro.
If you are taking any prescription medications, consult your doctor before drinking dandelion tea.
Linden: (Tilia cordata or Tilia platyphyllos)
Linden tea has been used in folk medicine across cultures for centuries. Parts of the linden tree, particularly the leaves, flowers, wood, and bark are used fresh or dried for medicinal purposes, including as an anxiolytic or calming agent, and also to soothe the digestive. Linden may also be used to assist sleep.
If you are on blood pressure medication, have a history of heart disease, are taking lithium, please check with your health care provider before using linden. Do not use if pregnant.
Licorice: (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice comes from the root of the licorice plant Native to Western Asia and Southern Europe. Licorice has long been used to treat various ailments and flavour candies, drinks, and medicines. Its use dates back to ancient Egypt, where the root was made into a sweet drink for pharaohs.
It has also been used in traditional Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Greek medicines to soothe an upset stomach, reduce inflammation, and treat upper respiratory problems.
Licorice may assist with mood swings, anxiety, stress, digestive issues and a variety of skin conditions.
Do not use licorice if you are taking warfarin or blood thinners, oestrogen medication, medication to address potassium levels or medication for kidney or liver disease, check with your health care provider before using licorice.
Licorice root has been shown to interact with several medications, including
- blood pressure medications
- blood thinners
- cholesterol lowering medications, including statins
- diuretics
- oestrogen-based contraceptives
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Individuals with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, kidney disease, or low potassium levels are encouraged to avoid glycyrrhizin-containing licorice products altogether.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those with kidney disease, heart disease, or high blood pressure should avoid licorice products.
People with any of these concerns or taking any of these medications should avoid licorice root products unless their healthcare provider instructs otherwise.
Disclaimer:
Do not use licorice if you are taking warfarin or blood thinners, oestrogen medication, medication to address potassium levels or medication for kidney or liver disease, check with your health care provider before using licorice.
Licorice root has been shown to interact with several medications, including
- blood pressure medications
- blood thinners
- cholesterol lowering medications, including statins
- diuretics
- oestrogen-based contraceptives
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Individuals with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, kidney disease, or low potassium levels are encouraged to avoid glycyrrhizin-containing licorice products altogether.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those with kidney disease, heart disease, or high blood pressure should avoid licorice products.
People with any of these concerns or taking any of these medications should avoid licorice root products unless their healthcare provider instructs otherwise.
