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Consult a doctor first before starting a herbal regimen What are herbal medicines? The National Health Service of the United Kingdom, a widely respected and publicly funded health care system, describes herbal medicines as those with active ingredients made from plant parts like leaves, roots or flowers. Because herbal medicines are made from plant parts, many peo- ple assume they're safe to take without consulting a physician. However, the NHS urges people to treat herbal medicines with the same care as they would more conventional medicines. A discussion with a physician can shed light on the potential side effects of herbal medicines and whether or not they're safe. Why should seniors be concerned? The NHS notes that seniors taking other medica- tions may experience problems if they begin taking herbal medicines as well. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, which is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Ser- vices, notes that more well-designed studies are necessary to fully evaluate interactions between herbal medi- cines and prescription drugs. However, the NCCIH notes that some evidence points to some harmful effects of mixing the two. For example, the NCCIH reports that prolonged exposure to concentrated garlic extracts may reduce the efficacy of some drugs. The potential for these types of interactions should be enough to compel seniors to think twice before taking herbal medicines without first consulting their physicians. n Know how herbal supplements affect your body Marin's only locally Family Owned and Operated Funeral Home Serving all of Marin County • Traditional Funeral Services • Cremation • Prearranged Funeral Planning • Funeral Insurance Plans • Memorial Services • Serving all Faiths • Memorial Monte's Chapel of the Hills Since 1931 24 HOUR SERVICE 415-453-8440 330 Red Hill Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94960 Edward J. Leon, Owner FDR 1633 Brian Hood FDR 1799 Assistance with • Activities of Daily Living • Bathing / Toileting • Caregiver Relief • Companionship • Light Housekeeping • Meal Preparation • Medication Reminders • Personal Care • Respite Care Transportation • Doctors Visits • Errands • Groceries • Outings • Appointments Homecare & Homemaker Services Phone 415.479.7141 Text 415.497.5114 Email care@gentlecareagency.com www.gentlecareagency.com Loree Ades Care Advocate A Marketing Supplement of the Marin Independent Journal | marinij.com Senior Style October 17, 2021 29