Ingredients | Amount Per Serving |
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Proprietary Blend
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1000 mg |
(leaf)
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(root)
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(root)
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(leaf)
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(Spirulina )
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plant-derived Capsule
Below is general information about the effectiveness of the known ingredients contained in the product Herbal Iron Formula. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
There is insufficient reliable information available about the effectiveness of yellow dock.
Below is general information about the safety of the known ingredients contained in the product Herbal Iron Formula. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used in amounts commonly found in foods.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately for medicinal purposes, short term. Beetroot juice has been safely used in clinical trials in doses of up to 500 mL daily for up to 7 days and a beetroot-based nutritional gel has been used safely in doses of up to 100 grams daily for 8 days (94461,94462,94464,100149,100152,100153).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of beets used medicinally during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when non-contaminated species of spirulina blue-green algae are used orally and appropriately (91713). The blue-green algae species Arthrospira platensis has been used with apparent safety in doses up to 19 grams daily for 2 months, or 10 grams daily for 6 months (18296,18300,18306,75944,91705,99703,104567,109965). The blue-green algae species Arthrospira fusiformis has been used with apparent safety in doses up to 4 grams daily for 3 months, or 1 gram daily for 12 months (15782,91717). Another blue-green algae species, Arthrospira maxima, has been used with apparent safety in a dose of 4.5 grams daily for up to 12 weeks (18297,99654,99655,102688). ...when non-contaminated, non-toxin producing strains of blue-green algae from the Aphanizomenon flos-aquae species are used orally and appropriately. Doses up to 1.6 grams daily have been used with apparent safety for up to 6 months (14842,18310). Some blue-green algae species can produce toxins called microcystins. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the tolerable daily intake of microcystins in adults is 0.04 mcg/kg (96549).
POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when contaminated blue-green algae are used orally. Blue-green algae can be contaminated with heavy metals (including mercury, cadmium, lead, or arsenic), neurotoxins, and toxic microcystin-producing cyanobacteria such as Microcystis aeruginosa (9171,75966,91704,91711,96550). Microcystins are most commonly reported in the blue-green algae species Aphanizomenon flos-aquae harvested from Upper Klamath Lake in Oregon. The Oregon Department of Health has set a limit of 1 mcg of microcystin-LR equivalents per gram dry weight of blue-green algae, assuming consumption of about 2 grams/day by adults (91704,91713). However, many samples of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae have been reported to contain higher levels than this (9171,91704). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the tolerable daily intake of microcystins in adults is 0.04 mcg/kg (96549). When consumed orally, microcystins accumulate in the liver, binding to and inhibiting protein phosphatases, causing hepatocyte damage and possible tumor promotion (9171). Aphanizomenon flos-aquae can also produce neurotoxic compounds that may be present in supplements containing this organism (91704).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when blue-green algae products are used orally.
Blue-green algae can accumulate heavy metals such as lead and mercury (91704,91711). They can also contain toxic microcystins produced by contaminating species of cyanobacteria such a Microcystis aeruginosa (91704). Children are more sensitive to poisoning by microcystins (3536). The Oregon Department of Health has set a limit for microcystins of 1 mcg per gram dry weight of blue-green algae, but some countries have set very low exposure limits of 0.2 mcg per day and 0.8 mcg per day for infants and children, respectively (91704).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
Some blue-green algae products, specifically those of the species Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, have been found to contain low amounts of beta-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA). BMAA is associated with neurodegenerative diseases, and breast milk has been shown to be a potential source of BMAA exposure in infants (96550).
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. Dandelion has Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts (12).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using amounts greater than those in foods.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately. Stinging nettle root 360-600 mg has been used safely for up to 1 year (5093,11230,15195,76406,96744). ...when used topically and appropriately (12490).
PREGNANCY: LIKELY UNSAFE
when used orally due to possible abortifacient and uterine-stimulant effects (4,6,19).
LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when properly prepared and consumed in amounts commonly found in foods. Young leaves must be boiled to remove the oxalate content; death has occurred after consuming uncooked leaves (6,18).
POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when the uncooked leaves are consumed. Young leaves must be boiled to remove the oxalate content; death has occurred after consuming uncooked leaves (6,18). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of properly prepared yellow dock when used orally in medicinal amounts.
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally; avoid using.
Yellow dock contains anthraquinone glycosides; unstandardized laxatives are not desirable during pregnancy (4).
LACTATION: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally; avoid using.
Anthraquinones are secreted into breast milk (4,5).
Below is general information about the interactions of the known ingredients contained in the product Herbal Iron Formula. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
Theoretically, spirulina blue-green algae might increase the risk of bleeding if used with other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs. However, this is unlikely.
Details
Spirulina blue-green algae have shown antiplatelet and anticoagulant effects in vitro (18311,18312,75892,92162,92163). However, one preliminary study in 24 patients receiving spirulina blue-green algae 2.3 grams daily for 2 weeks showed no effect on platelet activation or measures of clotting time (97202).
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Theoretically, taking blue-green algae with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Details
Human research shows that spirulina blue-green algae can have hypoglycemic effects in patients with diabetes, at least some of whom were using antidiabetes drugs (18299). However, blue-green algae does not seem to improve glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in patients with diabetes (102689,109970). A meta-analysis of animal studies also suggests that spirulina blue-green algae have hypoglycemic effects (109970).
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Theoretically, concurrent use of blue-green algae might interfere with immunosuppressive therapy.
Details
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Theoretically, taking dandelion root along with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Details
In vitro research suggests that dandelion root inhibits platelet aggregation (18291).
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Theoretically, dandelion might increase the risk for hypoglycemia when used with antidiabetes drugs.
Details
Laboratory research suggests that dandelion extract may have moderate alpha-glucosidase inhibitor activity and might also increase insulin secretion (13474,90926). Also, in a case report, a 58-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes who was being treated with insulin developed hypoglycemia 2 weeks after beginning to eat salads containing dandelion (46960).
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Theoretically, dandelion might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Details
Laboratory research suggests that dandelion might inhibit CYP1A2 (12734). So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans. However, until more is known, watch for an increase in the levels of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2 in patients taking dandelion.
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Theoretically, dandelion might increase the clearance of drugs that are UDP-glucuronosyltransferase substrates.
Details
There is some preliminary evidence that dandelion might induce UDP-glucuronosyltransferase, a phase II enzyme (12734).
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Theoretically, through diuretic effects, dandelion might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium.
Details
Animal research suggests that dandelion has diuretic properties (13475). As diuretics can increase serum lithium levels, the dose of lithium might need to be decreased when taken with dandelion.
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Theoretically, dandelion might increase the risk of hyperkalemia when taken with potassium-sparing diuretics.
Details
Dandelion contains significant amounts of potassium (13465).
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Theoretically, dandelion might lower fluoroquinolone levels.
Details
Animal research shows that dandelion reduces absorption of ciprofloxacin and can lower levels by 73% (13477). However, this effect has not been reported in humans.
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Theoretically, stinging nettle might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs.
Details
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Theoretically, combining stinging nettle with diuretic drugs may have additive effects.
Details
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Theoretically, stinging nettle might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium.
Details
Animal research suggests that stinging nettle has diuretic and natriuretic properties, which could alter the excretion of lithium (76402). The dose of lithium might need to be decreased.
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There is some concern that stinging nettle might decrease the effects of anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin.
Details
Stinging nettle contains a significant amount of vitamin K (19). When taken in large quantities, this might interfere with the activity of warfarin.
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Theoretically, yellow dock might increase the risk of digoxin toxicity when used long-term or in large amount.
Details
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Theoretically, yellow dock might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretics.
Details
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Theoretically, the laxative effects of yellow dock might increase the effects of warfarin, including the risk of bleeding.
Details
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Below is general information about the adverse effects of the known ingredients contained in the product Herbal Iron Formula. Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
General
...Orally, beet seems to be well tolerated when used for medicinal purposes, short term.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Red stools and red urine.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Hypocalcemia and kidney damage when ingested in large amounts.
Endocrine ...Theoretically, ingestion of large quantities of beets could lead to hypocalcemia because of the oxaluric acid content (18).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, beet juice may cause red stools (94470,97726,100142,100145,105762). This red coloring of the stools is not harmful. Other less common gastrointestinal side effects include loose stools, constipation, and nausea (100149).
Genitourinary ...Orally, beet is known to produce red or pink urine (beeturia) in some people (32569,34134,94464,94470,97725,97726,100142,100145,100152,105762). However, this red coloring of the urine is not harmful.
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, vivid dreams and worsening headaches have each occurred in one person in a clinical trial, although it is not clear if this is due to beet (97723).
Renal ...Theoretically, ingestion of large quantities of beets could lead to kidney damage due to its oxaluric acid content (18).
General
...Orally, spirulina blue-green algae seem to be well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, flatulence, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
Dermatologic ...Orally, a severe rash has been reported in a 49-year-old woman after taking a spirulina blue-green algae supplement (species and dose unknown). After stopping the supplement, inflammatory myopathy with muscle weakness and elevated creatine kinase occurred. The condition resolved with corticosteroid and cyclophosphamide treatment (75936). In another case report, an 82 year-old woman developed a blistering skin condition over a 2-year period while taking spirulina blue-green algae (A. platensis, dose unknown). She had partly hemorrhagic bullae, secreting erosions and macerations. These symptoms resolved when the supplement was stopped and the patient was treated with oral prednisone, topical silver sulfadiazine, and topical triamcinolone / neomycin (75921).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, gastrointestinal complaints are amongst the most common adverse effects associated with spirulina blue-green algae, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps (19272,75924,91713,109969). Similarly, common adverse effects associated with the blue-green algae species Aphanizomenon flos-aquae are stomach upset, flatulence, diarrhea, and bloating (14842).
Hematologic ...Orally, three cases of mild gum bleeding and one case of mild bruising have been reported in patients taking spirulina blue-green algae (Cyactiv, Cerule LLC) 2. 3 grams daily (containing approximately 1 gram of phycocanin) for 2 weeks (97202).
Hepatic ...Orally, significant elevations of liver function tests within 2 weeks of starting a spirulina blue-green algae supplement (species and dose unknown) have been reported in a 52-year-old man stabilized on amlodipine, simvastatin, and acarbose. A biopsy showed feathery degeneration and ballooning of hepatic cells. Cholestasis was present, and an ex-vivo lymphocyte stimulation test for spirulina blue-green algae was positive. All drugs and the spirulina blue-green algae supplement were stopped, with return of the LFTs to normal (9172).
Immunologic
...Orally, urticarial rashes and pruritus have occurred as part of generalized allergic reactions to blue-green algae (91706,91711,91712).
In one case report, a 14-year-old male experienced anaphylaxis with urticaria, lip edema, and asthma 6 hours after taking five tablets of spirulina blue-green algae (A. platensis, strength unknown). He had a positive skin prick test. Oral challenge to an extract of the tablets, and IgE from his serum, reacted with the beta chain of C-phycocyanin from A. platensis (91712).
In another case report, a 17-year-old male with a history of multiple allergies developed rash, pruritus, angioedema, wheezing, and dyspnea within 10 minutes of taking spirulina blue-green algae (A. platensis) 300 mg. He had a positive skin test to A. platensis but no other ingredients of the tablets (91706).
Musculoskeletal ...Orally, after a 49-year-old woman stopped taking a spirulina blue-green algae supplement (species and dose unknown), the patient experienced inflammatory myopathy with muscle weakness and elevated creatine kinase. The condition resolved with corticosteroid and cyclophosphamide treatment (75936). Another case report describes acute rhabdomyolysis that occurred after consumption of spirulina (Arthrospira platensis, Hawaiian spirulina, Solgar Inc., Leonia, NJ) 3 grams daily for 1 month. The 24-year old man presented with weakness, myalgias, elevated creatine kinase and liver function tests, and myoglobinuria (75922).
General
...Orally, dandelion seems to be well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Diarrhea, heartburn, and stomach discomfort.
Topically: Dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals.
Cardiovascular ...In one report, a 39-year-old obese woman developed palpitations and syncope after taking a weight loss supplement containing a combination of dandelion, bladderwrack, and boldo for 3 weeks. The patient was found to have prolonged QT-interval on ECG and frequent episodes of sustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (14321). It is not clear whether dandelion, another ingredient, or the combination of ingredients is responsible for this adverse effect. The product was not analyzed to determine the presence of any potential toxic contaminants.
Dermatologic ...Topically, dandelion can cause contact dermatitis and erythema multiforme in sensitive individuals. Dandelion can cause an allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family (13478,13481,42893,46945,46977). Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many other herbs.
Endocrine ...In one report, a 56-year-old man with renal impairment developed hyperoxalaemia and peripheral gangrene after ingesting large amounts of dandelion tea (10 to 15 cups daily for 6 months). The adverse effect was attributed to the high oxalate content of dandelion tea (258 mcmol/L) and reduced renal oxalate clearance caused by renal impairment (90639). In another report, a 58-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes who was being treated with insulin developed hypoglycemic symptoms 2 weeks after beginning to eat salads containing dandelion (46960). The hypoglycemic effect was attributed to the potential alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity of dandelion.
Gastrointestinal ...Gastrointestinal symptoms, including stomach discomfort, diarrhea, and heartburn, have been reported following oral use of dandelion (19146,36931). A case of intestinal blockage has been reported for a patient who ingested a large amount of dandelion greens three weeks after undergoing a stomach operation (46981). Also, a case of hemorrhagic cystitis has been reported for a 33-year-old woman who took a specific herbal product (Slim-Kombu, Balestra and Mech, Vicenza, Italy) containing 20 herbal extracts, including dandelion extract. Symptoms resolved after the patient discontinued using the product, and symptoms resumed when the patient began taking the supplement again four months later. While various ingredients in the supplement may have contributed to the symptoms, it is possible that dandelion extract may have contributed to the effect due to its diurectic, laxative, cholagogue, and antirheumatic properties (46959).
Other ...Orally, products containing dandelion pollen can cause allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis (13479,13480). Also, rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma have been reported after handling products such as bird feed containing dandelion and other herbs, with reported positive skin tests for dandelion hypersensitivity (46948). Dandelion pollen may cause pollinosis, such as allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis (18065,46951,46964,46966,46972).
General
...Orally, stinging nettle seems to be generally well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Constipation, diarrhea.
Topically: Contact with the raw plant causes itching, rash, and stinging.
Dermatologic ...Topically, fresh stinging nettle leaves and stalk can cause localized rash, itching, and stinging (12490,76399,76412,76414,76417,76428,76448,96746). Usually, short exposure to stinging nettle results in a transient urticarial reaction and a stinging sensation which may persist for more than 12 hours (76399,76414,76417,96746). In one report, a patient placed a fresh stinging nettle leaf on the tongue to suck out the sap of the leaf. Severe tongue edema, pain, and urticaria developed within 5 minutes. Symptoms continued for several hours after the leaf was removed (15197). In another case report, a young couple intoxicated with methamphetamine fell and laid in a stinging nettle bush for 20 minutes, after which urticaria and pain continued for 2-3 weeks, and a heightened sensitivity to cold persisted for several months (96746).
Endocrine
...A case of gynecomastia has been reported for a 33-year-old male who consumed stinging nettle tea 2 cups daily for one month prior to symptom onset.
The condition subsided one month after discontinuing stinging nettle tea (76410).
There have been two cases of galactorrhea associated with the consumption of stinging nettle for one month (76410,108902). In one case, a 33-year-old female consuming stinging nettle tea showed high levels of estradiol and low levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The levels of these hormones normalized 6 weeks after discontinuing stinging nettle tea (76410). In the other case report describing a 30-year-old female self-treating with stinging nettle 500 mg daily, hormone levels were not reported; however, a mammogram showed scattered areas of fibroglandular density and benign-appearing calcifications. This patient had complete resolution of symptoms 1 week after discontinuation of stinging nettle (108902).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, stinging nettle root can cause gastrointestinal complaints, including diarrhea and constipation (1,7,11230). Stinging nettle above ground parts may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort when taken on an empty stomach (7035). Stinging nettle juice may cause diarrhea (1). One patient taking a combination product containing stinging nettle root extract and pygeum bark extract (Prostatonin, Pharmaton) experienced continual gastrointestinal pain and hyperperistalsis. It is not clear if this effect was due to stinging nettle or pygeum (70230).
Genitourinary ...There is a case report of decreased ejaculatory volume associated with an herbal blend product containing stinging nettle root extract, saw palmetto extract, pumpkin seed oil extract, lemon bioflavonoid extract, and beta-carotene (5093). It is unclear if this was due to stinging nettle, other ingredients, or the combination.
Hepatic ...A case of idiosyncratic drug-induced liver disease (DILI) is reported in a 36-year-old female who presented with abdominal pain after 1 month of taking an herbal liver detox tea containing stinging nettle and other ingredients. Remarkable laboratory values included elevated liver enzymes, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin. The patient received a loading dose of N-acetylcysteine and was hospitalized for 12 days (112178). However, it is unclear if the adverse effect was due to the stinging nettle, other ingredients, or the combination.
Other ...Orally, stinging nettle root can cause sweating (1,7).
General
...Orally, yellow dock seems to be well tolerated when properly prepared and consumed in food amounts.
Consuming raw yellow dock leaves or rhizomes may be unsafe.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Raw leaves or rhizomes can cause hypocalcemia, kidney stones, and vomiting.
Cardiovascular ...Orally, yellow dock has been linked to ventricular fibrillation and death after ingestion of 500 grams (17). Oxalic acid, a constituent of yellow dock, reacts with calcium in plasma, forming insoluble calcium oxalate, which can cause hypocalcemia; the crystals may precipitate in the blood vessels and heart (12). Older or uncooked leaves should be avoided (6).
Dermatologic ...Orally, yellow dock can cause dermatitis when consumed in large amounts (4). Topically, contact with the plant may cause dermatitis in people sensitive to yellow dock (6).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, vomiting may occur after ingestion of fresh rhizome (18). Consuming excessive amounts can cause diarrhea and nausea (6). Excessive use can also cause abdominal cramps and intestinal atrophy (4). There is one report of a death, preceded by vomiting and diarrhea, after ingestion of 500 grams of yellow dock (17). Older or uncooked leaves should be avoided (6).
Genitourinary ...Orally, yellow dock can cause polyuria when consumed in large amounts (6).
Hematologic ...Orally, in one case report, a 38-year-old female developed immune-mediated thrombocytopenia after consuming a "cleansing" tea containing unknown amounts of yellow dock and burdock. The patient presented with bruising, mild weakness, and fatigue, which started 2-3 days after consuming the tea, and was found to have a platelet count of 5,000 per mcL. Symptoms resolved after platelet transfusion and treatment with oral dexamethasone (108971). It is unclear if these effects were caused by yellow dock, burdock, the combination, or other contributing factors.
Hepatic ...Orally, yellow dock has been linked to liver failure and death after ingestion of 500 grams (17). Oxalic acid, a constituent of yellow dock, reacts with calcium in plasma, forming insoluble calcium oxalate, which can cause hypocalcemia; the crystals may precipitate in the liver (12). Older or uncooked leaves should be avoided (6).
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, yellow dock has been linked to coma and death after ingestion of 500 grams (17). Older or uncooked leaves should be avoided (6).
Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Orally, yellow dock has been linked to respiratory depression and death after ingestion of 500 grams (17). Oxalic acid, a constituent of yellow dock, reacts with calcium in plasma, forming insoluble calcium oxalate, which can cause hypocalcemia; the crystals may precipitate in the lungs (12). Older or uncooked leaves should be avoided (6).
Renal ...Orally, yellow dock can cause polyuria when consumed in large amounts (6). There is one report of a death, preceded by kidney failure, after ingestion of 500 grams (17). Oxalic acid, a constituent of yellow dock, reacts with calcium in plasma, forming insoluble calcium oxalate, which can cause hypocalcemia; the crystals may precipitate in the kidneys. Individuals with a history of kidney stones should use yellow dock cautiously (12). Older or uncooked leaves should be avoided (6).
Other ...Orally, yellow dock can cause hypokalemia when taken in large amounts (4). There is one report of a death, preceded by severe metabolic acidosis, after ingestion of 500 grams of yellow dock (17). Oxalic acid, a constituent of yellow dock, reacts with calcium in plasma, forming insoluble calcium oxalate, which can cause hypocalcemia; the crystals may precipitate in the kidneys, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and liver (12). Older or uncooked leaves should be avoided (6).