Liver Detox [Discontinued] by Swanson Ayurvedic

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Asthma. Preliminary clinical research in children 5 years of age and older with asthma shows that taking an Ayurvedic medicine (amrita bindu) containing Ceylon leadwort and other herbs for 12 months reduces the need for asthma medications, improves expiration by up to 65%, and improves symptoms when compared to baseline (92326). The validity of this finding is limited by the lack of a comparator group. Additionally, it is not clear if these effects are due to Ceylon leadwort, the other ingredients, or the combination. More evidence is needed to rate Ceylon leadwort for this use.

(Read more about CEYLON LEADWORT)

POSSIBLY INEFFECTIVE

• Obesity. Oral guggul does not seem to reduce body weight in patients who are overweight or obese. Details: Several small clinical studies in overweight or obese individuals shows that taking guggul 1.5-4 grams daily for 4-12 weeks or standardized tablets containing guggul (Medohar) 1.5-3 grams daily for 4 weeks does not reduce body weight when compared with no treatment or placebo (54447,54502,54511). Another clinical study in patients with hypercholesterolemia shows that taking a standardized guggul extract 1-2 grams three times daily for 8 weeks does not improve body weight when compared with placebo (10371). Guggul has also been evaluated in combination with other ingredients. One small clinical study in overweight individuals shows that taking guggul 250 mg in combination with phosphate 550 mg, garcinia 250 mg, and L-tyrosine 250 mg three times daily for 6 weeks, along with exercise and calorie restriction, reduces body weight and body fat percentage when compared to baseline, but not when compared with placebo (8152). It is unclear if these findings are due to guggul, other ingredients, or the combination.

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Acne. It is unclear if oral guggul is beneficial in patients with acne. Details: A very small clinical study in patients with nodulocystic acne shows that taking guggul, providing guggulsterone 25 mg, twice daily for 3 months leads to similar reductions in inflammatory lesions and the risk for relapse when compared with tetracycline (3268).
• Hemorrhoids. Topical guggul has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small study in adults with symptomatic mild to moderate (first- and second-degree) internal hemorrhoids shows that application of a cream containing sesame oil and aqueous extracts of guggul and Allium ampeloprasum as a thin layer to the anus twice daily for 3 weeks improves anal irritation and itching, bleeding, pain, defecation discomfort, and swelling sense when compared to baseline. In contrast, patients using a placebo cream experienced an improvement only in anal itching (105751). The poor study methodology and lack of statistical comparison to the placebo group limit the validity of these findings.
• Hypercholesterolemia. Several small, low-quality clinical studies in Indian populations suggest that oral guggul may reduce cholesterol levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia; however, more recent evidence in patients on Western diets contradicts these findings. Details: A small clinical study in patients with hypercholesterolemia following a Western diet shows that taking guggul 1-2 grams three times daily for 8 weeks increases low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol by 9% to 10% with no improvements in total cholesterol, triglycerides, or high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol when compared with placebo (10371). Another small clinical study in adults with hyperlipidemia and low to moderate cardiovascular risk shows that taking a methanolic extract of guggul 200 mg along with an aqueous extract of Terminalia and Indian gooseberry 450 mg three times daily for 3 months does not improve total, LDL, or HDL cholesterol levels or triglyceride levels when compared with placebo (105741). This is in contrast to several low-quality studies of guggul in Indian populations, which show that taking guggul extract (guggulipid) 1-2.25 grams two to three times daily for up to 16 weeks seems to lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels when compared with baseline measures, placebo, or other controls (366,3267,8158,51219,54485,54497,54508). Also, some clinical research shows that taking a specific guggul extract fraction called "Fraction A" 500 mg three times daily for up to 75 weeks can reduce cholesterol and triglycerides in Indian patients with hypercholesterolemia (54492,54501). Most of the studies with positive findings were published in the 1970s and 1980s and may not be generalizable to patients on Western diets or taking conventional antihyperlipidemic agents, most of which were approved after the publication of these findings.
• Osteoarthritis. It is unclear if oral guggul is beneficial in patients with osteoarthritis. Details: Two small clinical studies in patients with osteoarthritis show that taking guggul may improve pain and other symptoms of osteoarthritis, measured using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) assessment, when compared to baseline (54453,111720). One study used guggul (containing 3.5% guggulsterones) 500 mg three times daily for 2 months (54453) and the other used a polyherbal ayurvedic formulation, abha guggulu, 1500 mg two times daily for 1 month (111720). The validity of these findings is limited by the lack of a comparator group.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is unclear if oral guggul is beneficial in patients with RA. Details: A small, uncontrolled clinical study in patients with RA shows that taking guggul 1 gram three times daily for 4 months improves symptoms of RA when compared to baseline (54512). The validity of these findings is limited by a lack of placebo group. More evidence is needed to rate guggul for these uses.

(Read more about GUGGUL)

POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

• Dental plaque. Topical neem mouth rinses and gel extracts may reduce dental plaque. It is unclear if neem is as effective as chlorhexidine for this purpose. Details: Clinical research shows that using neem topically as a mouth rinse or gel extract twice daily for 3 weeks to 3 months can reduce dental plaque in some patients (12824,64845,94567,97926,104182). Neem leaf extracts, including one at a concentration of 2.5%, have been applied to the teeth and gums twice daily for up to 3 months (12824,64845,104182). Rinsing with 5 mL of neem solution (concentration unknown) or 15 mL of neem 2% solution twice daily for up to 30 days has also been used (94567,97926). It is unclear how neem compares to chlorhexidine for this purpose. One small clinical trial shows that applying neem gel shows similar improvements in plaque index when compared with chlorhexidine 0.2% gel (104182), while another small study shows that rinsing with a neem solution may not be as effective as chlorhexidine 0.2% solution for reducing dental plaque (97926). Reasons for these disparate findings are unclear, but may be related to differences in patient populations, formulations used, and study length.
• Gingivitis. Topical neem mouth rinses and gel extracts may reduce gingivitis, but neem may not be effective in patients with chronic gingivitis. It is unclear if neem is as effective as chlorhexidine for this purpose. Details: Clinical research shows that using neem topically as a mouth rinse or gel extract twice daily for 3 weeks to 3 months appears to improve gingivitis in some patients (12824,64845,94567,104182). However, neem may not be effective in patients with chronic gingivitis (64850). Neem leaf extracts, including one at a concentration of 2.5%, have been applied to the teeth and gums twice daily for up to 3 months (12824,64845,104182). Rinsing with 15 mL of neem 2% solution twice daily for 3 weeks has also been used (94567). It is unclear how neem compares to chlorhexidine for this purpose. One small clinical trial shows that applying neem gel shows similar improvements in gingival index when compared with chlorhexidine 0.2% gel (104182), while other small studies show that rinsing with neem solution may not be as effective as chlorhexidine 0.2% solution for reducing gingivitis (97926,97927). Reasons for these disparate findings are unclear, but may be related to differences in patient populations, formulations used, and study length.
• Lice. Topical neem extract shampoo may treat lice in children. Details: Clinical research in children 2-11 years of age with head lice shows that applying a single application of neem extract shampoo (Licener Pronovo Laboratories) 100 mL to dry hair for 10 minutes followed by rinsing with warm water eradicates 100% of head lice. A single application of neem extract shampoo appears to be slightly more effective than dimethicone (silicone oil) shampoo (97928).

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Acne. Topical neem extract has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: An observational study in adults who have mild to moderate acne or those without current lesions who are prone to acne, shows that using a specific face wash containing unknown amounts of neem extract and turmeric extract (Himalaya's Purifying Neem Face Wash; Himalaya Drug Company) twice daily for 28 days reduces new inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions by 45% and 69%, respectively, when compared with baseline (107883). The validity of these findings is limited by the lack of a comparator group and short duration of treatment; additionally, it is unclear if this effect is due to neem extract, other ingredients, or the combination.
• Abortion. Although there has been interest in using oral neem to induce abortion, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this purpose.
• Asthma. Although there has been interest in using oral neem for asthma, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this purpose.
• Cardiovascular disease (CVD). Although there has been interest in using oral neem for CVD, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this purpose.
• Contraception. Although there has been interest in using oral and intravaginal neem for contraception, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this purpose.
• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). There is limited evidence on the oral use of a neem leaf extract in preventing COVID-19 in high-risk individuals. Details: A clinical study in adults at high risk for COVID-19 infection (e.g. healthcare workers and relatives of patients with COVID-19) shows that taking a specific capsule formulation of neem leaf extract (Nisarga's Neem; Nisarga Biotech) 50 mg twice daily for 28 days decreases the rate of COVID-19 infections by day 29 to 4%, compared with 10% of patients in the placebo group. This suggests that 17 patients would need to take this product to prevent one infection (107882). The validity of this study is limited by the short duration of treatment and unclear reporting. Additionally, patients were only tested for COVID-19 at baseline, day 29, or if symptoms were present; therefore, asymptomatic COVID-19 infections may have been underreported.
• Cough. Although there has been interest in using oral neem for cough, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this purpose.
• Diabetes. It is unclear if oral neem extract is beneficial in patients with diabetes. Details: One small clinical trial in patients with type 2 diabetes who are taking metformin shows that taking a specific neem leaf and twig extract (PhytoBGS; Natreon Inc) 125 mg, 250 mg, or 500 mg twice daily for 12 weeks improves glycemic control in a dose-dependent manner. When compared with placebo, reductions in fasting plasma glucose with neem extract ranged from 8-22 mg/dL and reductions in glycated hemoglobin ranged from 0.18% to 1.47%. Postprandial glucose and measures of insulin resistance and endothelial function were also improved (104181).
• Dyspepsia. Although there has been interest in using oral neem for dyspepsia, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this purpose.
• Hemorrhoids. Although there has been interest in using topical neem for hemorrhoids, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this purpose.
• Insect repellent. Although there has been interest in using topical neem as an insect repellent, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this purpose.
• Intestinal parasite infection. Although there has been interest in using oral neem for intestinal parasite infections, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this purpose.
• Metabolic syndrome. It is unclear if oral neem leaf and twig extract is beneficial in patients with metabolic syndrome. Details: One clinical trial in patients with metabolic syndrome shows that taking a specific neem leaf and twig extract (PhytoBGS; Natreon Inc) 250 mg or 500 mg twice daily for 12 weeks improves glycemic control in a dose-dependent manner when compared with placebo. In the treatment group, reductions in fasting plasma glucose, postprandial plasma glucose, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) ranged from 3-6 mg/dL, 0.7-5.4 mg/dL, and 0.6% to 1.7%, respectively (107881). However, there was no improvement in lipid parameters, and a lower dose of 125 mg twice daily did not affect any measurements (107881). The validity of this study is limited due to unclear reporting.
• Mosquito repellent. Small clinical studies suggest that topical creams containing neem oil may provide moderate to high-level protection against mosquitos. Details: Several small clinical studies show that topical application of a cream containing neem oil 1%, 2%, or 5% provides 37.5% to 100% protection against mosquitoes when compared with a placebo cream. Effectiveness seems to vary depending on mosquito species and geographic location (64876,64878,64882).
• Osteoarthritis. Although there has been interest in using topical neem for osteoarthritis, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this condition.
• Peptic ulcers. It is unclear if oral neem is beneficial in patients with peptic ulcers. Details: One small, uncontrolled clinical study in six patients with peptic ulcers shows that taking neem bark extract 30-60 mg twice daily for 10 weeks reduces gastric secretions when compared to baseline and might aid in the healing of gastroduodenal ulcers. All patients treated with neem bark extract experienced at least 80% healing of gastroduodenal ulcers (12822). The validity of these findings is limited by the very small study size and the lack of a control group.
• Psoriasis. It is unclear if oral neem is beneficial in patients with psoriasis. Details: One small clinical trial in patients with uncomplicated psoriasis shows that taking neem extract by mouth daily in combination with daily sun exposure and application of a Vaseline-based cream containing crude coal tar and salicylic acid for 12 weeks reduces psoriasis symptom severity by approximately 50% when compared with placebo (64892).
• Scleroderma. Topical neem has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Observational research in patients with systemic sclerosis has found that topical application of a specific cream (Holoil, RI.MOS. SRL) containing neem oil and St. John's wort extract seems to improve the healing of skin ulcers, decrease pain, reduce the need for surgical removal of lesions, and reduce the risk of infections and need for antibiotic therapy when compared with a control group (102867). It is unknown if these effects are due to neem, St. John's wort, or the combination. Additionally, the validity of these results is limited by a lack of randomization, blinding, and placebo-control.
• Tungiasis. It is unclear if topical neem oil is beneficial for the treatment of tungiasis. Details: One small clinical trial in children aged 6-15 years with tungiasis shows that topical application of an oil mixture containing neem seed oil 20% and virgin coconut oil 80%, 1 drop on days 1 and 3, kills about 40% of sand fleas within 7 days, a rate similar to standard treatment with a potassium permanganate 0.05% foot bath (104258).
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs). Although there has been interest in using oral neem for UTIs, there is insufficient reliable information available about the clinical effects of neem for this purpose.
• Wound healing. Topical neem has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A moderate-size clinical study in adults with dehisced post-surgical wounds shows that applying a specific aerosol product (1PWD, Kerecis AG) containing neem oil and St. John's wort to wounds during dressing changes does not improve wound healing scores at day 28 but may reduce pain scores when compared with silver-based dressings (alginates or polyurethane foam) (111592). However, this study may have been inadequately powered to detect a difference between groups. It is also unclear if these affects are due to neem, St. John's wort, or the combination. More evidence is needed to rate neem for these uses.

(Read more about NEEM)

POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

• Vitiligo. Taking picrorhiza orally for up to 1 year, in combination with oral and topical methoxsalen, seems to help treat vitiligo in adults and children (11493).

POSSIBLY INEFFECTIVE

• Asthma. Taking picrorhiza orally for up to 12 weeks does not seem to help asthma symptoms or improve measurements of lung function (11858).

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A small clinical study in patients with COPD and chronic cough shows that taking two capsules of a specific combination product (AKL1, AKL International Ltd.) containing picrorhiza ginkgo extract, and ginger twice daily for 8 weeks does not improve cough or other respiratory symptoms when compared with placebo (89702).
• Hepatitis. Preliminary clinical research suggests that picrorhiza, given orally for 2 weeks, might help acute viral hepatitis. It seems to improve symptoms such as anorexia, nausea, and malaise, as well as lower bilirubin and transaminase levels (11848). Picrorhiza has not been tested in patients with hepatitis B. More evidence is needed to rate picrorhiza for these uses.

(Read more about PICRORHIZA)

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Alzheimer disease. Oral shilajit has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small preliminary clinical trial in adults with probable Alzheimer disease shows that taking shilajit 200 mg, in combination with folate and vitamins B6 and B12, daily for 24 weeks modestly prevents cognitive deterioration based on some measures compared with placebo (112637). This study lacks a complete description of methodology and findings. Also, it is not clear if these effects are due to shilajit, the other ingredients, or the combination.
• Athletic performance. Although there is interest in using oral shilajit for improving athletic performance, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of shilajit for this purpose.
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Although there is interest in using oral shilajit for BPH, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of shilajit for this condition.
• Diabetes. Although there is interest in using oral shilajit for diabetes, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of shilajit for this condition.
• Fractures. It is unclear if oral shilajit is beneficial for fracture repair. Details: Clinical research in adults shows that taking shilajit 500 mg twice daily for 28 days following surgery for a new tibia fracture results in a mean time to bone union of 129 days compared with 153 days in those taking placebo (112616). This study is limited by the large attrition rate, leaving only 62 patients X-rayed for the primary outcome.
• Hyperlipidemia. Although there is interest in using oral shilajit for hyperlipidemia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of shilajit for this condition.
• Hypertension. Although there is interest in using oral shilajit for hypertension, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of shilajit for this condition.
• Male infertility. It is unclear if oral shilajit is beneficial for male infertility. Details: Preliminary clinical research in adults with oligospermia shows that taking shilajit 100 mg twice daily for 90 days increases total sperm count by 61% and motility by at least 12% when compared to baseline. Normal sperm count was increased by 19% and white blood cell counts were reduced by 55% (112621). The validity of this study is limited by the lack of a comparator group.
• Muscle strength. It is unclear if oral shilajit is beneficial for muscle strength. Details: A small clinical trial in recreationally-active adults with baseline maximal strength above the 50^th percentile shows that taking shilajit (PrimaVie, Natreon Inc., New Brunswick, NJ) 500 mg daily for 8 weeks modestly prevents a decline in this muscle strength after a fatiguing protocol when compared with taking shilajit 250 mg daily or placebo. However, there was no effect in the adults below the 50th percentile for maximal strength at baseline (112614). This study is limited by the inclusion of only male participants.
• Osteopenia. It is unclear if oral shilajit is beneficial for osteopenia. Details: A small clinical trial in postmenopausal adults with osteopenia or osteoporosis shows that taking shilajit (PrimaVie, Natreon Inc., New Brunswick, NJ) 250 mg or 500 mg daily, in a dose-responsive manner, for 48 weeks modestly increases bone density at the lumbar spine and femoral neck when compared with placebo (112613). The study is limited by the inclusion only of patients within 5 years of menopause lacking conventional hormonal therapy or anti-resorptive medication. It is unclear if these results are generalizable to other populations, including males or premenopausal or older females.
• Osteoporosis. It is unclear if oral shilajit is beneficial for osteoporosis. Details: A small clinical trial in postmenopausal adults with osteopenia or osteoporosis shows that taking shilajit (PrimaVie, Natreon Inc., New Brunswick, NJ) 250 mg or 500 mg daily, in a dose-responsive manner, for 48 weeks modestly increases bone density at the lumbar spine and femoral neck when compared with placebo (112613). The study is limited by the inclusion only of patients within 5 years of menopause lacking conventional hormonal therapy or anti-resorptive medication. It is unclear if these results are generalizable to other populations, including males or premenopausal or older females.
• Sexual desire. Although there is interest in using oral shilajit for increasing sexual desire, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of shilajit for this purpose.
• Sexual dysfunction. Although there is interest in using oral shilajit for sexual dysfunction, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of shilajit for this purpose. More evidence is needed to rate shilajit for these uses.

(Read more about SHILAJIT)

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Angina. It is unclear if oral Terminalia arjuna is beneficial in patients with angina. Details: Low-quality clinical research in patients with angina shows that taking Terminalia arjuna extract 500-2000 mg orally daily for 3 months reduces the frequency of angina symptoms by 50% to 71% when compared with baseline. These results were similar to taking conventional therapy (2502,2503). Other preliminary research in adults with chronic stable angina shows that taking Terminalia arjuna 500 mg orally three times daily for 7 days reduces the need for rescue treatment and improves exercise tolerance when compared with placebo. Improvements were similar to taking isosorbide mononitrate 20 mg twice daily (92833).
• Asthma. Although there has been interest in using oral Terminalia arjuna for asthma, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Terminalia arjuna for this purpose.
• Athletic performance. It is unclear if oral Terminalia arjuna is beneficial for athletic performance. Details: A small clinical study in young regular exercising males shows that taking Terminalia arjuna extract (Oxyjun, Enovate Biolife Pvt Ltd, India) 400 mg daily for 8 weeks increases the time to exhaustion by approximately 117 seconds when compared with placebo. There were also modest improvements in feelings of perceived exertion and the left ventricular ejection fraction, a measure of blood pumped from the heart with each heartbeat (111093). It is unclear if oral Terminalia arjuna is beneficial other populations such as athletes and females.
• Coronary heart disease (CHD). It is unclear if oral Terminalia arjuna is beneficial in patients with CHD. Details: Preliminary clinical research in patients with CHD shows that taking Terminalia arjuna bark powder 500 mg orally daily for 30 days decreases levels of total cholesterol by about 10% and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol by about 16% when compared with baseline. Taking Terminalia arjuna bark powder did not improve high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels (92832).
• Heart failure. The effects of Terminalia arjuna in patients with heart failure is unclear; evidence to date comes from small, short-term clinical studies, and results are conflicting. Details: Preliminary, low-quality clinical research in patients with severe, refractory congestive heart failure shows that taking Terminalia arjuna bark extract 500 mg orally three times daily for 2 weeks, as an adjunct to conventional therapy, improves left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) by 17% when compared with placebo (2504). However, other preliminary clinical research in adults with stage II heart failure shows that taking an extract of Terminalia arjuna bark 750 mg orally twice daily as an adjunct to conventional therapy for 12 weeks does not improve LVEF, functional class, or functional capacity when compared with placebo (96726). However, the validity of these trials is limited by short-term treatment and variation in the conventional therapies used to manage heart failure.
• Hyperlipidemia. It is unclear if oral Terminalia arjuna is beneficial for improving lipid levels. Details: Preliminary clinical research in patients with elevated cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, or obesity, shows that taking Terminalia arjuna 5 grams orally twice daily for 60 days decreases levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides by 17% and 35%, respectively, and increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels by 9%, when compared with baseline. Improvements in lipid parameters were similar to taking amlodipine 5 mg and atorvastatin 10 mg daily (109677). However, this study may have been inadequately powered to detect a difference between groups.
• Hypertension. It is unclear if oral Terminalia arjuna is beneficial for reducing blood pressure. Details: Preliminary clinical research in patients with elevated cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, or obesity, shows that taking Terminalia arjuna 5 grams orally twice daily for 60 days reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 11% and 14%, respectively, when compared with baseline. Improvements in blood pressure were similar to taking amlodipine 5 mg and atorvastatin 10 mg daily (109677). However, this study may have been inadequately powered to detect a difference between groups.
• Obesity. It is unclear if oral Terminalia arjuna is beneficial for weight loss. Details: Preliminary clinical research in patients with elevated cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, or obesity, shows that taking Terminalia arjuna 5 grams orally twice daily for 60 days reduces body mass index (BMI) by 6% when compared with baseline. Improvements in BMI were similar to taking amlodipine 5 mg and atorvastatin 10 mg daily (109677). This study may have been inadequately powered to detect a difference between groups. More evidence is needed to rate Terminalia arjuna for these uses.

(Read more about TERMINALIA ARJUNA)

There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of Ceylon leadwort.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: LIKELY UNSAFE
when used orally or topically. Ceylon leadwort is traditionally used orally and intravaginally as an abortifacient or for permanent sterilization; avoid using.

(Read more about CEYLON LEADWORT)

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when the prepared gum resin is used orally and appropriately. It has been used with apparent safety in clinical trials for up to 24 weeks (3267,3268,10371). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of guggul when used topically.

PREGNANCY: LIKELY UNSAFE
when used orally; avoid using. Guggul gum resin appears to stimulate menstrual flow and the uterus (12).

LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

(Read more about GUGGUL)

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when neem bark extract is used orally and appropriately, short-term. Neem bark extract has been used safely in clinical research at doses up to 60 mg daily for up to 10 weeks (12822). ...when neem leaf and twig extract is used orally and appropriately, short-term. Neem leaf and twig extract has been used safely in clinical research at doses up to 500 mg twice daily for up to 12 weeks (104181). ...when neem leaf extract gel is used intraorally for up to 6 weeks (12824,64845,64850,94567). ...when neem oil, cream, or face wash is used topically on the skin for up to 2 weeks (64876,64878,64882,102867,107883).

POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when neem or neem oil is used orally in large amounts or long-term. Preliminary clinical research suggests neem might be toxic to the kidneys or liver with high-dose or chronic use. Cardiac arrest has also been reported (12835,64870,64873).

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when neem extract is used topically. It has been used with apparent safety as a shampoo, with one or two total applications (97928).

CHILDREN: LIKELY UNSAFE
when neem oil or seeds are used orally. There are reports of infants who were severely poisoned and died after oral use of neem (3473,3474,3476,64855,64875).

PREGNANCY: LIKELY UNSAFE
when neem oil or leaf is used orally. Neem oil and leaf have been used as abortifacients (12825,12835,64884,64889).

LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

(Read more about NEEM)

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately. Picrorhiza seems to be safe when used for up to 1 year (11493,11848,11858).

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

(Read more about PICRORHIZA)

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when processed shilajit is used orally and appropriately. Processed shilajit has been used with apparent safety in doses of 2 grams daily for 45 days or up to 500 mg daily for up to 48 weeks (112613,112614,112615,112616,112617,112618,112619,112621). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of crude or unprocessed shilajit when used orally or shilajit when used topically.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of shilajit when used during pregnancy and lactation.

(Read more about SHILAJIT)

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately, short-term. Several small studies have used Terminalia arjuna powdered bark or bark extract with apparent safely in doses up to 2000 mg or 400 mg daily, respectively, for 2 weeks to 3 months (2502,2503,2504,111012,111093); however, patients should avoid self-treatment with this product due to potentially significant cardiovascular effects. Further study is needed to determine the safety of Terminalia arjuna for long-term use.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

(Read more about TERMINALIA ARJUNA)

(Read more about CEYLON LEADWORT)

ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = B Theoretically, guggul might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.  Details In vitro research and preliminary clinical studies suggest that guggul might have antiplatelet and anticoagulant effects (3267,9557,54503,54505).

CONTRACEPTIVE DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, guggul might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with contraceptive drugs.  Details In vitro research shows that guggul has estrogen-alpha receptor agonist activity (12444).

CYTOCHROME P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, guggul might reduce the effects of CYP3A4 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that guggul constituents known as guggulsterones can induce CYP3A4 (12444).

DILTIAZEM (Cardizem, others) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = B Guggul might reduce the effects of diltiazem.  Details A small pharmacokinetic study shows that concomitant use of guggul with diltiazem reduces the bioavailability of diltiazem (383).

ESTROGENS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, guggul might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with estrogens.  Details In vitro research shows that guggul constituents known as guggulsterones have estrogen-alpha receptor agonist activity (12444).

PROPRANOLOL (Inderal) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = B Guggul might reduce the effects of propranolol.  Details A small pharmacokinetic study shows that concomitant use of guggul with propranolol reduces the bioavailability of propranolol (383).

ROSUVASTATIN (Crestor) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, guggul might increase the effects and adverse effects of rosuvastatin.  Details Animal research shows that guggul increases the bioavailability and hypolipidemic effects of rosuvastatin (109584). The mechanism of this interaction is unclear.

TAMOXIFEN (Nolvadex) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, guggul might interfere with tamoxifen therapy.  Details In vitro research shows that guggul has estrogen-alpha receptor agonist activity (12444).

THYROID HORMONE Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = B Theoretically, guggul might increase the risk for adverse effects when taken with thyroid hormone therapy.  Details Animal research suggests that guggul has thyroid-stimulating effects (8153).

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ANTIDIABETES DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Neem might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.  Details Some clinical research shows that neem can lower blood glucose levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, including those already taking metformin (12823,104181).

CYTOCHROME P450 2C8 (CYP2C8) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, neem leaf extract might increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C8 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that neem leaf methanol extract inhibits CYP2C8 enzymes (111593). So far, this reaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, neem leaf extract might increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C9 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that neem leaf methanol extract inhibits CYP2C9 enzymes (111593). So far, this reaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, neem leaf extract might increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that neem leaf methanol extract inhibits CYP3A4 enzymes (111593). So far, this reaction has not been reported in humans.

IMMUNOSUPPRESSANTS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, neem might decrease the effectiveness of immunosuppressants.  Details Animal research suggests that neem might have immunostimulant effects (12825).

P-GLYCOPROTEIN SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, neem leaf extract might increase the levels and clinical effects of P-glycoprotein substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that neem leaf methanol extract inhibits renal P-glycoprotein transport activity (107850). So far, this reaction has not been reported in humans.

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ANTIDIABETES DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Taking shilajit with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.  Details Most human and animal research shows that shilajit can decrease fasting plasma glucose levels (112621,112626,112627,112630,112638). In an animal model, shilajit 100 mg per kg daily enhanced the glucose-lowering ability of both glibenclamide and metformin when given in combination over a 4 week period (112638). Monitor blood glucose levels closely. Dose adjustments might be necessary.

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ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, concomitant use of Terminalia arjuna with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs may increase the risk of bleeding in some patients.  Details In vitro, Terminalia arjuna bark extract inhibits platelet aggregation, decreases platelet activation, and shows antithrombotic properties (92831).

CYTOCHROME P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, use of Terminalia arjuna may increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP2C9 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Terminalia arjuna extract inhibits CYP2C9 enzymes and reduces CYP2C9 substrate metabolism (96729).

CYTOCHROME P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, use of Terminalia arjuna may increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP2D6 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Terminalia arjuna extract inhibits CYP2D6 enzymes and reduces CYP2D6 substrate metabolism (96729).

CYTOCHROME P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, use of Terminalia arjuna may increase the levels and clinical effects of CYP3A4 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Terminalia arjuna extract inhibits CYP3A4 enzymes and reduces CYP3A4 substrate metabolism (96729).

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General ...No adverse effects have been reported. However, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.

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General ...Orally, guggul seems to be generally well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Belching, bloating, diarrhea, headache, nausea, unpleasant taste, and vomiting. Allergic and non-allergic skin reactions.
Topically: Allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Rhabdomyolysis.

Dermatologic ...Orally, guggul can cause hypersensitivity reactions including rash and pruritus (10371,54457). Guggul can also cause nonallergic adverse skin reactions. The risk of skin reactions appears to be dose-dependent. In one study, the incidence of skin reactions was 3% with a dosage of 1000 mg three times daily, compared with 15% with a dosage of 2000 mg three times daily. The severity of the reactions ranged from pruritus to swelling and erythema of the face to bullous lesion on the lower legs associated with headaches, myalgias, and pruritus (13662).
Topically, guggul can cause allergic contact dermatitis (54464,54467). Also, in a small clinical study, one patient using a cream containing aqueous extracts of guggul and Allium ampeloprasum as well as sesame oil complained of rash at the application site (105751). It is unclear if this reaction was due to guggul, other ingredients, or other factors.

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, guggul can cause nausea, vomiting, loose stools, diarrhea, belching, bloating, hiccups, and mild gastrointestinal discomfort (3267,8155,8158,10371,52033,54492).

Hepatic ...A case of severe hypertransaminasemia has been reported for a 63-year-old female who took a specific product (Equisterol) containing guggulsterone and red yeast rice extract daily for 6 months. Liver function normalized after discontinuing the supplement. It is unclear if the adverse effect was due to guggulsterone, red yeast, or the combination. However, the patient had previously developed hepatotoxicity while taking lovastatin, and red yeast contains monacolin K, which is identical to lovastatin (54477). Also, a case of acute liver failure requiring liver transplantation has been reported for a previously healthy young female who used a mixed-ingredient dietary supplement containing extracts of green tea, guggul, and usnic acid. It is unclear if the hepatotoxicity was due to guggul or other ingredients; green tea has been associated with hepatotoxicity (54027).

Immunologic ...Orally, guggul can cause hypersensitivity reactions including rash and pruritus (10371,54457). In a small clinical study, two adults with hyperlipidemia developed a hypersensitivity rash, one with facial edema, within minutes of oral administration of a methanolic extract of guggul, together with Terminalia extract (105741). It is unclear if this reaction was due to guggul, Terminalia, or other factors.
Topically, guggul can cause allergic contact dermatitis (54464,54467).

Musculoskeletal ...There is one case of rhabdomyolysis reported in a patient who took guggul 300 mg three times daily. The patient developed hemoglobinuria within 2 weeks of starting guggul in addition to increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, and myoglobinemia. The patient did not have any muscular symptoms. The patient's condition improved when guggul was discontinued. The patient had a history of developing elevated creatine kinase levels after taking simvastatin; however, the patient was not taking a statin at the time of this episode of rhabdomyolysis (13029).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, guggul can cause headaches (3267,8155,8158,10371,42692,49583). Less commonly, guggul may cause restlessness and apprehension (49583,54492).

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General ...Orally, neem extracts seem to be well tolerated in adults. However, high-quality assessment of safety has not been conducted. In children, oral use of neem oil can cause serious adverse effects. Topically, neem seems to be well tolerated in children and adults.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Topically: Contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Cardiac arrest, nephrotoxicity, and ventricular fibrillation with neem leaf in adults. Encephalopathy, hematologic abnormalities, hepatotoxicity, and nephrotoxicity with neem oil in infants and young children.

Cardiovascular ...Orally, neem leaf has been reported to cause ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest after ingestion in humans (64873,64870).

Dental ...Topically, use of neem twigs to brush teeth, which is a traditional dental hygiene practice in India, has been associated with vitiligo of the lips. The limonoid constituents in neem, which have been shown to inhibit melanogenesis and have cytotoxic effects, combined with repeated, local trauma from this dental hygiene practice are thought to cause this leucodermic reaction. In a case series of seven patients experiencing vitiligo of the lips from neem twigs, use of toothpaste and topical tacrolimus along with avoidance of neem stopped the progression of depigmentation in all patients. Repigmentation was reported in four of the seven patients 12 months after discontinuing neem-based dental hygiene practices (100958).

Dermatologic ...Topically, neem products have been associated with dermatologic reactions. Some case reports have associated the use of topical neem oil with contact dermatitis (64851,94568,102867). In one case series, the topical application of neem seed extract shampoo was associated with skin irritation, red spots, and a burning feeling of the scalp (64848). Use of neem twigs to brush teeth, which is a traditional dental hygiene practice in India, has been associated with vitiligo of the lips. The limonoid constituents in neem, which have been shown to inhibit melanogenesis and have cytotoxic effects, combined with repeated, local trauma from this dental hygiene practice are thought to cause this leucodermic reaction. In a case series of seven patients experiencing vitiligo of the lips from neem twigs, use of toothpaste and topical tacrolimus along with avoidance of neem stopped the progression of depigmentation in all patients. Repigmentation was reported in four of the seven patients 12 months after discontinuing neem-based dental hygiene practices (100958).

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, neem oil has been reported to cause vomiting and loose stools in infants and small children (3473,3474,3476,64865).

Genitourinary ...Orally, neem leaf has been reported to cause oliguria and anuria in adults (12833,12834). After a single intrauterine instillation, purified neem oil has been reported to cause endometritis in healthy, tubectomised females (64886).

Hematologic ...Orally, neem leaf has been reported to cause hemolysis in adults (12835). In one case report, a 35-year-old male with diabetes and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency developed hemolytic anemia and jaundice after drinking several liters of neem tea daily for 3 weeks. All symptoms resolved after discontinuation and supportive treatment (94571). Orally, neem oil has been reported to cause metabolic acidosis, anemia, and polymorphonuclear leukocytosis in infants and young children (3473,3474,3476,64865).
A single intrauterine instillation of purified neem oil has been reported to cause mild transient eosinophilia in healthy, tubectomised females (64886).

Hepatic ...Orally, neem oil has been associated with reports of hepatotoxicity in infants and children. These adverse effects occurred after single doses of neem oil ranging from a few drops to 60 mL. Pathologic findings on liver biopsy reports have been consistent with Reye-like syndrome (3473,3474,3475).

Immunologic ...Topically, a case of aggravated bullous pemphigoid requiring hospitalization is reported in a 47-year-old patient with this autoimmune condition after application of neem oil to blisters for an unknown duration (111715).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, single doses of neem oil ranging from a few drops to 60 mL have been associated with reports of encephalopathy in infants and small children. Symptoms include drowsiness, seizure, loss of consciousness, coma, cerebral edema, Reye-like syndrome, and death within hours of ingestion (3473,3474,3476,3476,64855,94750). There is also at least one case report of neurotoxicity in an adult after ingestion of a neem-based pesticide. A 35-year-old female experienced neurotoxicity requiring intensive medical care and ventilation after ingestion of a pesticide containing azadirachtin, a constituent of neem oil (64858).

Ocular/Otic ...In one case report, a 35-year-old female developed toxic optic neuropathy and vision loss in both eyes lasting for two days after consuming 150 mL of neem oil in a suicide attempt five days earlier (64856).

Renal ...Orally, neem leaf has been reported to cause oliguria, anuria, acute tubular necrosis, and nephrotoxicity in adults (12833,12834). There are some case reports of children developing Reye-like syndrome after ingestion of neem oil. Pathologic findings on renal biopsy reports have been consistent with Reye syndrome (3473,3474,3475).

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General ...Orally, picrorhiza may cause vomiting, rash, anorexia, diarrhea, itching, and giddiness (11858).

Dermatologic ...Orally, picrorhiza may cause rash and itching (11858).

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, picrorhiza may cause vomiting, anorexia, and diarrhea (11858).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, picrorhiza may cause giddiness (11858).

(Read more about PICRORHIZA)

General ...Orally, processed shilajit seems to be well tolerated. Topically, no adverse effects have been reported. However, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: A case report has raised concerns about pseudohyperaldosteronism.

Cardiovascular ...Orally, a case of hypertension related to mineralocorticoid-excess syndrome or pseudohyperaldosteronism is reported in a 37-year-old female following the use of shilajit for 6 months during pregnancy. Electrocardiographic findings were normal. Product discontinuation and treatment with intravenous and oral potassium led to restoration of blood pressure and potassium levels (112622). The role of shilajit in this adverse effect cannot be confirmed. The presence of other ingredients or contaminants in the product was not ruled out.

Endocrine ...Orally, a case of apparent mineralocorticoid excess, or pseudohyperaldosteronism, with edema, increased urinary potassium, calcium, and magnesium loss, hypokalemia, and metabolic alkalosis, is reported in a 37-year-old female following the use of shilajit for 6 months during pregnancy. Product discontinuation and treatment with intravenous and oral potassium led to restoration of potassium levels (112622). The role of shilajit in this adverse effect cannot be confirmed. The presence of other ingredients or contaminants in the product was not ruled out.

Immunologic ...Orally, a case of allergy to shilajit made worse by exercise is reported in a 43-year-old female. Although symptoms were lacking when shilajit 400 mg was taken daily with meals for 3 months, she developed hives within an hour of taking a single dose of shilajit 800 mg. With intramuscular corticosteroids, symptoms improved but did not resolve. The next day, following a meal and physical activity she developed anaphylaxis requiring adrenaline and intravenous corticosteroids (112620).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, headache is reported rarely following shilajit intake in clinical research (112616).

(Read more about SHILAJIT)

General ...There is currently a limited amount of information available on the adverse effects of oral Terminalia arjuna. A thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.

(Read more about TERMINALIA ARJUNA)