3 Day Diet Pill by Advantage Pharmaceuticals

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Canker sores. It is unclear if topical alchemilla is beneficial for canker sores. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that applying a commercial product containing 3% alchemilla extract and glycerol (Aphtarine, Laboratoires Biosphere) may reduce the time to complete healing in otherwise healthy individuals with minor canker sores (96345). However, the lack of a comparator group limits the validity of these results.
• Postoperative sore throat. It is unclear if alchemilla throat spray reduces sore throat after surgery. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that using a preoperative throat spray containing alchemilla extract, 1 gram in glycerol mixed with 1 mL of normal saline, prior to tracheal intubation, does not reduce the incidence or severity of postoperative sore throat when compared with preoperative intravenous dexamethasone 0.2 mg/kg (109543) More evidence is needed to rate alchemilla for these uses.

(Read more about ALCHEMILLA)

There is insufficient reliable information available about the effectiveness of buchu.

(Read more about BUCHU)

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Diabetes. It is unclear if oral cumin is beneficial in patients with diabetes. Details: Two small clinical studies in adults with type 2 diabetes show that taking cumin essential oil 25-100 mg by mouth daily for 8-12 weeks reduces fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), serum insulin, and diabetes-associated inflammatory markers when compared with placebo (111368,111370). However, meta-analyses of studies in patients with and without type 2 diabetes show conflicting results. One analysis of seven clinical trials shows that taking cumin essential oil 25-300 mg daily for up to 24 weeks does not improve fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, or other markers of glycemic control when compared with a control group (106516). Another meta-analysis evaluating eight clinical trials, including all seven assessed in the previous analysis, shows that cumin essential oil has a large effect on both fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c when compared with control (106517). These discrepant findings may be due to the inclusion of an additional trial in the second analysis or different methods for pooling study results.
• Dyslipidemia. It is unclear if oral cumin is beneficial in patients with dyslipidemia. Details: A meta-analysis of six clinical trials including 376 individuals with or without hyperlipidemia shows that taking cumin reduces levels of total cholesterol by around 11 mg/dL and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol by around 7 mg/dL when compared with control or placebo. Cumin also increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels by around 3 mg/dL, but does not affect triglyceride levels. A sub-analysis of dosages and dosage forms shows that cumin essential oil 25-100 mg daily or cumin powder 3 grams daily were beneficial, while lower doses of the powder or essential oil and all doses of cumin extract did not affect lipid levels. Patients included in the available research were either overweight or obese or had been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (100162). It is not clear what effect, if any, cumin has in patients with diagnosed dyslipidemia.
• Hypertriglyceridemia. Small clinical studies suggest that oral cumin extract or essential oil does not seem to reduce triglyceride levels in patients with hypertriglyceridemia, although it may improve other lipid parameters. Details: A meta-analysis of two small clinical trials in adults with either type 2 diabetes or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) who also have hypertriglyceridemia shows that taking cumin extract 225 mg daily for 6 months or cumin essential oil 25 mg daily for 3 months modestly reduces levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and modestly increases levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol when compared with placebo. However, taking cumin does not improve triglyceride levels (100162).
• Impaired glucose tolerance (prediabetes). It is unclear if oral cumin is beneficial in patients with prediabetes. Details: A small clinical trial in adults with prediabetes shows that taking cumin essential oil 75 mg daily for 10 weeks does not improve fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), or measures of insulin resistance but does seem to reduce body weight, body mass index (BMI), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol when compared with placebo (111369).
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Although there has been interest in using oral cumin for IBS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of cumin for this purpose.
• Metabolic syndrome. It is unclear if oral cumin essential oil is beneficial in patients with metabolic syndrome. Details: A small clinical trial in adults with metabolic syndrome shows that taking cumin essential oil 75 mg three times daily for 8 weeks does not improve body weight, blood pressure, glycemic control, or lipid levels when compared with placebo (104143).
• Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Although there has been interest in using oral cumin for NASH, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of cumin for this purpose.
• Obesity. Small clinical studies suggest that oral cumin essential oil or powder may reduce body weight and body mass index (BMI) in overweight or obese individuals. Details: One small clinical study in overweight and obese individuals maintaining their usual diet and physical activity shows that taking cumin essential oil 100 mg three times daily for 8 weeks reduces weight by 1.3 kg and BMI by 0.5 kg/m2 when compared with placebo. The effect of cumin was similar to that of orlistat 120 mg three times daily. Cumin, but not orlistat, improved plasma insulin levels and insulin sensitivity; however, it did not affect insulin resistance, thyroid function, or plasma glucose or lipid levels (100160). Another small clinical study in overweight or obese females shows that taking cumin powder 1.5 grams in 150 mL of low-fat yogurt twice daily with meals as part of a calorie-restrictive diet for 3 months increases weight loss by an additional 2 kg when compared with yogurt and a calorie-restrictive diet alone. Intake of cumin also improved BMI, fat mass, waist circumference, and blood lipid levels, but did not affect fasting blood glucose levels (100161). More evidence is needed to rate cumin for these uses.

(Read more about CUMIN)

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Constipation. Although there has been interest in using oral dandelion for constipation, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of dandelion for this purpose.
• Dyspepsia. Although there has been interest in using oral dandelion for dyspepsia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of dandelion for this purpose.
• Flatulence. Although there has been interest in using oral dandelion for flatulence, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of dandelion for this purpose.
• Heart failure. Although there has been interest in using oral dandelion for its diuretic effects in patients with heart failure, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of dandelion for this purpose.
• Joint pain. Although there has been interest in using oral or topical dandelion for joint pain, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of dandelion for this purpose.
• Postoperative pain. It is unclear if topical dandelion is beneficial in patients with pain after jaw surgery. Details: A small clinical study in patients undergoing maxillofacial surgery shows that topical application of dandelion combined with borneol one time on the day of surgery and twice daily on the first and second days after surgery for 30 minutes does not reduce maxillofacial pain when compared with cold compresses or either ingredient alone (112484). The validity of this finding is limited by concurrent use of opioid analgesic and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications.
• Postoperative swelling. It is unclear if topical dandelion is beneficial in patients with swelling after jaw surgery. Details: A small clinical study in patients who underwent maxillofacial surgery shows that topical application of dandelion combined with borneol one time on the day of surgery and twice daily on the first and second days after surgery for 30 minutes modestly reduces facial swelling and improves mouth opening abilities when compared with cold compresses or borneol alone (112484). It is unclear whether this effect is due to dandelion, borneol, or the combination.
• Tonsillitis. It is unclear if oral dandelion is beneficial in patients with tonsillitis. Details: One small clinical study in patients with acute purulent tonsillitis shows that eating soup containing dandelion (pugongying soup) daily for 3 days along with benzylpenicillin sodium 640,000 units daily improves recovery when compared with placebo plus benzylpenicillin sodium. Recovery rates were 36% with the dandelion-containing soup compared to 10% with placebo (18292).
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs). Oral dandelion has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small clinical study in females with recurrent UTIs shows that taking a specific combination of dandelion root and uva ursi leaf extracts three times daily for 1 month reduces the risk of UTI recurrence when compared with placebo at 12-month's follow-up. For every 5 patients treated with this combination over placebo, one additional UTI was prevented (1932). In this combination, uva ursi is used for its antibacterial properties and dandelion is used to increase urination. However, this combination is not recommended for extended use because uva ursi may be unsafe when used long-term. Another small clinical study in premenopausal females with acute, uncomplicated lower UTIs shows that taking a combination product containing dandelion extract 50 mg, D-mannose, prebiotics, arabinogalactan, and astragalus root extract twice daily for five days, along with phenazopyridine and alkylating agents as conventional therapy, improves UTI symptoms and bacteriuria when compared with placebo plus conventional therapy (111757). It is unclear if these effects are due to dandelion, other ingredients, or the combination. More evidence is needed to rate dandelion for these uses.

(Read more about DANDELION)

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Clinical research shows that taking a mixture of powdered English horsemint leaves 150 mg, purple nut sedge tuber 150 mg, and ginger tuber 150 mg three times daily for 8 weeks improves abdominal pain, stool frequency, stool consistency, incomplete evacuation, and urgency when compared to baseline. These improvements are similar to taking the antispasmodic medication mebeverine 135 mg three times daily (89900). It is not clear if this effect is due to English horsemint, the other ingredients, or the combination. More evidence is needed to rate English horsemint for this use.

(Read more about ENGLISH HORSEMINT)

POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

• Constipation. Glucomannan is generally effective for treatment of constipation in adults, but the efficacy in children is less clear. Details: Clinical research in adults shows that taking glucomannan 1-1.5 grams three times daily orally for 3-5 weeks, sometimes followed by 1 gram twice daily for an additional 4 weeks, can relieve constipation. As a nonabsorbable dietary fiber, glucomannan appears to have a bulk laxative effect (11294,57783,57795,57816). Taking glucomannan 1.45 grams with lactulose 4.2 grams twice daily orally for 1-3 months appears to relieve constipation during pregnancy (57818). In children with constipation, glucomannan can increase the frequency of bowel movements but does not seem to improve stool consistency. A meta-analysis of 3 clinical trials including 122 children with functional constipation shows that glucomannan leads to 1.4 more stools per week but does not improve stool consistency when compared with placebo or a maltodextrin control (97935). Two studies included in this analysis show that taking a specific glucomannan supplement (Dicoplus, Dicofarm) 100 mg/kg once or twice daily (maximum daily dose 5 grams) along with fluids for up to 12 weeks relieves constipation in children (11295,57775). However, the other clinical study included in the analysis shows that taking a different glucomannan supplement (Dicoman Junior, Vitis Pharma) 1.26 grams twice daily for 4 weeks does not improve constipation in children (92005).
• Diabetes. Limited clinical research suggests that glucomannan may improve glycemic control and lipid profiles in patients with type 2 diabetes. Details: Taking glucomannan orally seems to reduce serum cholesterol and blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (183,11357,11359,57791,57797,57798,112702). Most clinical research shows that a glucomannan dose of 3-15 grams daily for 4-12 weeks may reduce fasting blood glucose (183,11357,57791,57797,111225). Eating cookies containing glucomannan 0.5-0.7 grams per 100 kcal for 3 weeks has also been used (11358,11359,57797). Accordingly, a meta-analysis of 5 mostly small, low-quality clinical studies in adults with type 2 diabetes, that includes several of these studies, shows that taking glucomannan 1.2-15 grams daily for 4-16 weeks modestly improves fasting blood glucose when compared with placebo or wheat bran. This analysis also shows that taking glucomannan modestly improves 2-hour post-prandial glucose, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels but not triglycerides (112702). In healthy people, adding a specific glucomannan supplement (PolyGlycopleX, InovoBiologic Inc.) as granules, 2.5-7.5 grams before meals, or as capsules 3-6 grams with meals, can reduce the glycemic index of starchy foods (92003,92007). Also, taking this glucomannan product reduces postprandial glucose in a dose-dependent fashion in healthy people (92002,92007). However, the interpretation of this evidence is limited by low-quality research and variations in dosages and formulations.
• Hyperlipidemia. Most clinical research shows that glucomannan can reduce cholesterol levels in healthy people and those with hyperlipidemia. Details: Although some conflicting evidence exists (57794), most research shows that taking glucomannan orally can improve lipid levels in healthy adults, children and adults with hyperlipidemia, and adults with diabetes (178,11357,11358,11359,57779,57781,57784,57791,57799,97936)(112702). Meta-analyses of clinical research show that taking glucomannan 2.5-15.1 grams daily for up to 12 weeks can reduce total cholesterol by 19 mg/dL, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol by 13-16 mg/dL, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol by 12 mg/dL, and triglycerides by 11 mg/dL when compared with a control (57797,97936). Clinical research has not demonstrated a dose-response relationship, and the most common glucomannan doses are 5-10 grams daily for up to 6 weeks for adults and 2-3 grams daily in divided doses for up to 8 weeks for children (11358,11359,57797,97936).

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Dumping syndrome. It is unclear if oral glucomannan is beneficial in patients with dumping syndrome. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that taking glucomannan (Propol, Pharmacia) 2.6 or 5.2 grams as a single dose reduces the incidence of reactive hypoglycemia following an oral glucose load in adult patients with previous gastric surgery (57805). Other preliminary clinical research shows that taking glucomannan improves glucose tolerance, but not glucose absorption, in children experiencing gastric dumping syndrome after gastric surgery (57804).
• Hypertension. It is unclear if oral glucomannan is beneficial in patients with hypertension. Details: Preliminary clinical research in patients with hypertension shows that eating cookies containing 0.7 grams of glucomannan per 100 kcal, for a total dose of up to 13 grams of glucomannan daily for 3 weeks, can lower systolic blood pressure by about 7% when compared with placebo (11359).
• Hyperthyroidism. It is unclear if oral glucomannan is beneficial in patients with hyperthyroidism. Details: Preliminary clinical research in patients with hyperthyroidism shows that taking glucomannan 1.3 grams twice daily orally, plus methimazole and propranolol for 2 months, reduces serum triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels during the first few weeks of therapy, when compared with methimazole and propranolol alone. However, these effects seem to diminish after 6 weeks of therapy (57793).
• Metabolic syndrome. It is unclear if oral glucomannan is beneficial for metabolic syndrome. Details: A small crossover study in adults with metabolic syndrome, defined as impaired glucose tolerance, reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, elevated serum triglycerides, and moderate hypertension, shows that consuming biscuits containing glucomannan 0.5 grams per 100 kcal (equivalent to approximately 8-13 grams/day) daily for 3 weeks may modestly improve fasting glucose, but does not improve blood pressure or levels of triglycerides or HDL cholesterol when compared with wheat bran biscuits (11358). However, the 2-week washout period between interventions may be too short to detect differences in some outcomes.
• Obesity. Although some low-quality research shows that oral glucomannan is beneficial for achieving slight improvements in body weight, other research does not support this. Details: Meta-analyses of clinical research on the use of glucomannan for improving body weight and body composition in adults and children with overweight or obesity show mixed results, with one analysis suggesting that taking glucomannan reduces body weight by around 0.8 kg when compared with placebo (57797), and another showing no improvement in body weight (92014). Reasons for these discrepant findings are not clear, but the discrepancies may relate to differences in the study populations and dosing and duration of glucomannan treatment, as well as the low methodological quality of many studies conducted to date. Similar to the pooled analyses described above, individual clinical study results are also mixed. Several small clinical studies show that taking glucomannan can improve body weight, body mass index (BMI), fat mass, and other measures of body composition in children and adults with overweight or obesity, usually when used in combination with a calorie-restricted diet (180,181,182,183,54240,92008,92010,92011,111224,112701). However, conflicting evidence exists (179,57784,57790,57796,92009,112430). Doses that have been used with positive outcomes in adults are 3-4 grams daily, taken in divided doses, for up to 3 months (181,182,183,92008,112701). In children, doses were 2-3 grams daily for 4 months (180). Specific products evaluated include Propylene TM (Natural Alternatives International), PolyGlycopleX (InovoBiologic, Inc.) 3-5 grams 2-3 times daily for 15 weeks, and. Chrombalance 338 mg before each meal and 226 mg in the afternoon daily for 5 weeks (54240,92010,92011). More evidence is needed to rate glucomannan for these uses.

(Read more about GLUCOMANNAN)

LIKELY EFFECTIVE

• Constipation. Taking senna orally is effective for the short-term treatment of constipation. Details: Senna is an FDA-approved nonprescription drug marketed for the short-term treatment of constipation in adults and children ages 2 years and older (15429,15433,15436,15441,15442,74545,74607,74609,74613,74615). Senna usually produces a laxative effect 6-10 hours after oral administration (15429,96559). However, in children ages 3-15 years, mineral oil and lactulose might be more effective (15434,15435). Taking senna with psyllium is also effective for the short-term treatment of constipation (8424,74593), with the combination increasing stool moisture to a greater degree than psyllium alone (8424). In patients with opioid or loperamide-induced constipation, taking senna appears to be as effective as lactulose, psyllium, and docusate for relieving constipation (15432,74586,74644,74650). Some population research has found that senna may be more effective than docusate, polyethylene glycol, and lactulose for preventing problematic constipation, the need for an enema, and abdominal imaging in pediatric cancer patients receiving opioids (92710). Senna also seems to be beneficial in chronic constipation. Clinical guidelines published by the American Gastroenterology Association and American College of Gastroenterology in 2023 give a conditional recommendation suggesting the use of senna over managing chronic idiopathic constipation without senna based on low-quality of evidence conducted over 4 weeks (112859). In geriatric patients, senna plus psyllium is more effective than lactulose for treating chronic constipation (15438,15439,15440). Also, a small study in middle-aged adults with chronic idiopathic constipation shows that taking senna (ALOSENN granules) 500 mg twice daily for 4 weeks seems to be similarly effective to taking magnesium oxide 500 mg three times daily (105959).

POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

• Bowel preparation. Taking oral senna might be effective for bowel cleansing before colonoscopy. Details: A meta-analysis of 10 clinical trials in adults shows that taking senna alone or with other bowel preparations does not improve bowel cleansing before elective colonoscopy when compared with non-senna bowel preparations. However, in a subgroup analysis of 3 clinical studies, taking senna solution alone is about 2.5 times more likely to result in a clean bowel when compared with polyethylene glycol alone (112893). The interpretation of these findings is limited by varied senna dosages and regimens. Additionally, 2 clinical studies that were not included in this meta-analysis show that senna is as effective or more effective than polyethylene glycol for improving bowel cleanse quality (15431,40088). Conversely, other studies show that polyethylene glycol is superior to senna (40086,74587,74606,74636). It is also unclear if taking senna with polyethylene glycol improves bowel cleansing when compared with polyethylene glycol alone (74583,74585). Some clinical studies show that senna is as effective as castor oil and bisacodyl for bowel cleansing (74548,74603,74624). Although taking senna alone is less effective than sodium phosphate (15431,74567,74570,74653,92712), some evidence suggests that taking a combination of senna, sodium picosulfate, and polyethylene glycol is more effective than sodium phosphate for bowel cleansing prior to colonoscopy (74538). Limited research has also assessed the benefit of adding senna to a preparation regimen for small bowel capsule endoscopy; however, it is unclear whether the addition of senna improves endoscopy outcomes when compared with the preparation regimen alone (96557).

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Hyperkalemia. It is unclear if oral senna is beneficial for reducing potassium levels. Details: A small, single-center, open-label clinical study in adults in Thailand with end stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis shows that taking senna 15 mg daily for 2 months reduces predialysis serum potassium levels by approximately 0.3 mEq/L when compared with control (115470). There is insufficient reliable information available about the effectiveness of senna for its other uses.

(Read more about SENNA)

POSSIBLY INEFFECTIVE

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs). Clinical research does not support the use of oral uva ursi for treatment of UTIs. For prevention of UTIs, oral uva ursi has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A large clinical study in females with uncomplicated UTI shows that taking uva ursi tablets providing 210 mg arbutin orally three times daily for 5 days is less effective than a single dose of fosfomycin 3 grams for reducing UTI symptom burden and the number of rescue antibiotic courses. Rescue antibiotics were needed in 44% of patients receiving uva ursi, compared with 23% of those receiving fosfomycin. On day 4, the percentage of patients with symptom resolution was 49% with uva ursi, compared to 65% with fosfomycin. Pyelonephritis occurred in 8 patients on uva ursi and 2 patients on fosfomycin (109535). Also, a large clinical study in females experiencing symptoms of a UTI shows that taking uva ursi extract 1200 mg three times daily for 3-5 days does not improve symptoms or reduce the need for antibiotics when compared with placebo (101815). Uva ursi has also been evaluated for the prevention of UTIs. One small clinical study in females with recurrent UTI shows that taking a specific combination product containing uva ursi and dandelion (UVA-E, Medic Herb AB) 3 tablets three times daily for one month reduces the recurrence rate of UTIs when compared with placebo (1932). It is not clear if this effect is due to uva ursi, dandelion, or the combination.

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Although there is interest in using oral uva ursi for BPH, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of uva ursi for this condition.
• Bronchitis. Although there is interest in using oral uva ursi for bronchitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of uva ursi for this condition. More evidence is needed to rate uva ursi for these uses.

(Read more about UVA URSI)

There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of alchemilla when used orally or topically. Alchemilla has been used historically without reports of significant toxicity; however, it is unclear what dose or duration of use may be safe (6,8,12).

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

(Read more about ALCHEMILLA)

LIKELY SAFE ...when the leaf is used in amounts commonly found in foods. Buchu has Generally Recognized As Safe status (GRAS) for use in foods in the US (4912).

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when the leaf is used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts (2,12).

POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when excessive amounts of buchu leaf are taken orally or when the oil is ingested. Buchu contains pulegone, a known hepatotoxin (4). Pulegone is a major component of the oil. It is more abundant in buchu products that come from Agathosma crenulata (93681).

PREGNANCY: LIKELY UNSAFE
when used in medicinal amounts; buchu is reported to be an abortifacient (4).

LACTATION: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used in food amounts. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of using larger amounts; avoid using.

(Read more about BUCHU)

LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. Cumin and cumin oil have Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912).

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when the powder or essential oil is used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts, short-term (12). Cumin essential oil has been used with apparent safety in doses up to 225 mg daily for up to 8 weeks or 100 mg daily for up to 6 months (100160,100162,104143). Cumin powder has been used with apparent safety in doses up to 3 grams daily for up to 6 months (100161,100162). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of cumin powder or essential oil when used orally, long-term.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using in excess of food amounts.

(Read more about CUMIN)

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). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of dandelion when used topically.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using amounts greater than those in foods.

(Read more about DANDELION)

There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of English horsemint.

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

(Read more about ENGLISH HORSEMINT)

LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally as food (11358,11359). Glucomannan powder or flour is often used to enrich noodles in traditional Japanese foods.

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally with at least 250 mL (8 ounces) of water or other fluid. Glucomannan has been safely used in studies lasting up to 4 months (178,179,181,182,11046,11294,11357,11294,54240,57775)(57781,57783,57784,92004,92008,92009,92010,92011,106410). In the European Union, the maximum permitted level in foods is 10 grams/kg (106411).

POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used orally without any liquid, especially when in tablet form. There have been reports of choking and esophageal or gastrointestinal obstruction when glucomannan products are taken dry. A safety alert for this has been issued by Health Canada (11293,57785,106410).

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately with at least 250 mL (8 ounces) of water or other fluid. Glucomannan has been safely used in children for up to 4 months (179,180,11295,57775,57779,92005,92006,97935).

CHILDREN: LIKELY UNSAFE
when used orally without any liquid, especially when in tablet form. There have been reports of esophageal and gastrointestinal obstruction when glucomannan products are taken dry (11293,57785,106410).

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

(Read more about GLUCOMANNAN)

LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately, short-term. Senna is an FDA-approved nonprescription drug (8424,15429,15431,15442,40086,40088,74535,74545,74548,74562)(74567,74570,74583,74585,74586,74587,74593,74603,74606,74607)(74609,74613,74615,74624,74636,74639,74644,74650,74653,92711)(92712).

POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used orally long-term or in high doses. Long-term, frequent use, or use of high doses has been linked to serious side effects including laxative dependence and liver toxicity (13057,13095).

CHILDREN: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately, short-term. Senna is an FDA-approved nonprescription drug for use in children 2 years and older. (15429,15434,15435).

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally long-term or in high doses. Long-term, frequent use, or use of high doses has been linked to serious side effects including laxative dependence and liver toxicity (13057,13095,105956).

PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately, short-term (15429,24480). POSSIBLY UNSAFE...when used orally long-term or in high doses. Long-term, frequent use, or use of high doses has been linked to serious side effects including laxative dependence and liver toxicity (13057,13095).

LACTATION: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately, short term. Although small amounts of constituents of senna cross into breast milk, senna has been taken while breast-feeding with apparent safety. Senna does not cause changes in the frequency or consistency of infants' stools. (6026,15429,15436,15437,24482,24484,24485,24486,24487,74545).

(Read more about SENNA)

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately, short-term. Uva ursi has been used with apparent safety in doses of up to 3600 mg daily for 3-5 days (101815).

POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when used orally long-term or in high doses. There is concern about the safety of long-term or high-dose use because of the hydroquinone content of uva ursi. Hydroquinone is thought to have mutagenic and carcinogenic effects (7). At high doses (around 20 grams of dried herb) it can cause convulsions, cyanosis, delirium, shortness of breath, and collapse. At very high doses (30 grams of dried herb or more) it can be fatal (4).

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally by children. Uva ursi contains hydroquinone and high tannin levels, which can cause severe liver problems in children (4,18); avoid using.

PREGNANCY: LIKELY UNSAFE
when used orally. Uva ursi can have oxytocic effects, increasing the speed of labor (4,7,19); avoid using.

LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

(Read more about UVA URSI)

(Read more about ALCHEMILLA)

(Read more about BUCHU)

ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, cumin might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.  Details In vitro evidence suggests that cumin can inhibit platelet aggregation (46897). Theoretically, cumin might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.

ANTIDIABETES DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, cumin might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.  Details Animal research suggests that cumin can lower blood sugar in diabetic animals (19,46857,46895). However, research in humans with and without diabetes has found conflicting results (106516,106517).

RIFAMPIN (Rifadin) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, cumin might increase the effects and adverse effects of rifampin.  Details Animal research suggests that an aqueous extract of cumin containing a specific flavonoid glycoside can increase the bioavailability and plasma levels of rifampin (46876).

(Read more about CUMIN)

ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D 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).

ANTIDIABETES DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D 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).

CYTOCHROME P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D 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.

GLUCURONIDATED DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D 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).

LITHIUM Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = D 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.

POTASSIUM-SPARING DIURETICS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, dandelion might increase the risk of hyperkalemia when taken with potassium-sparing diuretics.  Details Dandelion contains significant amounts of potassium (13465).

QUINOLONE ANTIBIOTICS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D 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.

(Read more about DANDELION)

(Read more about ENGLISH HORSEMINT)

ORAL DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = B Theoretically, glucomannan may decrease absorption of drugs taken orally.  Details Due to its viscosity and bulking effects, there is concern that glucomannan can decrease the absorption of oral drugs. A small clinical study in healthy volunteers shows that taking glyburide 2.5 mg plus glucomannan 3.9 grams with breakfast reduces plasma levels of glyburide when compared with breakfast and glyburide alone (11360). In addition, animal research demonstrates this effect on amoxicillin, but shows increased absorption of metronidazole. This mouse model also demonstrates that metronidazole elimination is prolonged, but amoxicillin elimination is enhanced by 38%; glucomannan may also affect the distribution of some drugs (112703). To avoid changes in absorption, take glucomannan 30-60 minutes after taking oral drugs.

(Read more about GLUCOMANNAN)

DIGOXIN (Lanoxin) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, senna might increase the risk of adverse effects when taken with digoxin.  Details Overuse/abuse of senna increases the risk of adverse effects from cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, due to potassium depletion (15425).

DIURETIC DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, senna might increase the risk of hypokalemia when taken with diuretic drugs.  Details Overuse of senna might compound diuretic-induced potassium loss and increase the risk for hypokalemia (15425).

ESTROGENS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = B Theoretically, taking senna may interfere with the absorption of exogenous estrogens.  Details Some preliminary clinical evidence suggests that senna reduces the absorption of estradiol and decreases serum concentrations of estrone and estrone sulfate by decreasing intestinal transit time (74647,74651).

STIMULANT LAXATIVES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, senna might increase the risk for fluid and electrolyte loss when taken with other stimulant laxatives.  Details Senna is a stimulant laxative; concomitant use with other stimulant laxatives might compound fluid and electrolyte loss (19,15425).

WARFARIN (Coumadin) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, excessive use of senna might increase the effects of warfarin.  Details Senna has stimulant laxative effects and can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin, increase international normalized ratio (INR), and increase the risk of bleeding. In one case report, excessive use of senna for 3 weeks resulted in diarrhea, bloody stools, and an elevated INR of 11.9 (16530).

(Read more about SENNA)

CYTOCHROME P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, uva ursi may decrease the metabolism of CYP2C19 substrates.  Details In vitro, uva ursi appears to inhibit cytochrome CYP2C19 (98550). This effect 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, uva ursi may decrease the metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates.  Details In vitro, uva ursi appears to inhibit CYP3A4 (98550). This effect has not been reported in humans.

GLUCURONIDATED DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, uva ursi may increase levels of drugs metabolized by glucuronidation.  Details In vitro, uva ursi extract appears to strongly inhibit UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1 (UGT1A1). However, uva ursi extract does not appear to inhibit UGT1A1 in animal models (98549). This effect has not been reported in humans.

LITHIUM Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, uva ursi may increase lithium levels, necessitating a decrease in dose.  Details Uva ursi may have diuretic properties (81637). Diuretics may increase lithium reabsorption with sodium in the proximal tubule of the kidney. Theoretically, uva ursi might reduce excretion and increase levels of lithium.

P-GLYCOPROTEIN SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, uva ursi may alter the levels of drugs transported by P-glycoprotein.  Details In vitro, uva ursi appears to inhibit the multi-drug transporter protein, P-glycoprotein (98550). This effect has not been reported in humans.

URINARY ACIDIFYING AGENTS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Effects of uva ursi in the urinary tract may be reduced by urinary acidifying agents.  Details Uva ursi seems to work best in alkaline urine. Theoretically, taking uva ursi with medications known to acidify the urine may decrease any effects of uva ursi on the urinary tract (19).

(Read more about UVA URSI)

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

Dermatologic ...In one clinical study, local irritation in the mouth after topical application of a commercial product containing 3% alchemilla extract and glycerol (Aphtarine, Laboratoires Biosphere) has been reported (96345).

(Read more about ALCHEMILLA)

General ...Orally, buchu leaf can cause GI and kidney irritation (4,6) and increase menstrual flow (6). Buchu is also a reported abortifacient (4).

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, buchu may cause gastrointestinal irritation (4,6).

Genitourinary ...Orally, buchu may increase menstrual flow (6). Buchu is also a reported abortifacient (4).

Renal ...Orally, buchu may cause kidney irritation (4,6).

(Read more about BUCHU)

General ...Orally, cumin powder and essential oil seem to be well tolerated, short-term.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Gastrointestinal upset.
Topically: Contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals.

Dermatologic ...Topically, undiluted cumin oil has been reported to cause phototoxic effects (6).

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, gastrointestinal upset has been reported in some patients taking cumin essential oil (104143).

Immunologic ...Orally, cumin may cause allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in sensitive individuals. One case report of anaphylaxis associated with cumin consumption has been reported (46905).
Topically, cumin may cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals (31341,46902,46905).

(Read more about CUMIN)

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 diuretic, 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).

(Read more about DANDELION)

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

(Read more about ENGLISH HORSEMINT)

General ...Orally, glucomannan is generally well tolerated when taken with plenty of water or other liquid.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, and vomiting.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Choking and esophageal or gastrointestinal obstruction, especially when taken as a dry powder or in tablet form.

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, glucomannan can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, including abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, and vomiting, especially when taken in doses of more than 3 grams daily (57781,57784,92004,92010,92011,97935,106411). Esophageal and gastrointestinal obstructions have been reported when dry glucomannan-containing products are taken with insufficient fluid (11293,57785,106410).

Hepatic ...Acute cholestatic hepatitis occurred in a 31-year-old male after taking glucomannan orally for 45 days (57777). He was also taking other supplements, including garlic and chitosan, so it is unclear whether the hepatitis was due to glucomannan, other supplements, or the combination.

Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Cases of occupational respiratory disorders, including respiratory sensitization and bronchial asthma, have been reported in workers exposed to glucomannan (57789,57810).

(Read more about GLUCOMANNAN)

General ...Orally, senna is generally well-tolerated when used short-term in appropriate doses.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Abdominal pain and discomfort, cramps, diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, fecal urgency, and urine discoloration.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Skin eruptions.

Cardiovascular ...Excessive use can cause potassium depletion and other electrolyte abnormalities (15425). In theory, this could cause potentially dangerous changes in heart rhythm. A small decrease in heart rate was seen in one clinical study (74587).

Dermatologic ...In adults, there are rare case reports of skin eruptions associated with senna, including erythema multiforme, fixed drug eruption, lichenoid reaction, toxic epidermal necrolysis, urticaria, photosensitivity, and contact dermatitis (96558). Infants and young children given senna products have experienced contact reactions on the buttocks due to prolonged exposure to stool while wearing a diaper overnight. These reactions range from erythema with small blisters, to large fluid-filled blisters with skin sloughing, as occurs with second degree burns (96559). In a case series of children treated with senna for chronic constipation, burn-like reactions occurred in 2.2%, typically with higher doses (mean 60 mg/day, range 35.2 to 150 mg/day) (96558,96559). These reactions can be avoided by giving senna early in the day, so that bowel movements occur at a time when diapers can be changed quickly (96559).

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, senna can cause abdominal pain and discomfort, cramps, bloating, flatulence, nausea, fecal urgency, and diarrhea (15427,15434,15435,15436,15439,15440,15441,105955). Chronic use has also been associated with "cathartic colon," radiographically diagnosed anatomical changes to the colon such as benign narrowing, colonic dilation, and loss of colonic folds (15428). The clinical relevance of these findings is unclear. Chronic use can also cause pseudomelanosis coli (pigment spots in intestinal mucosa) which is harmless, usually reverses with discontinuation, and is not associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal adenoma or carcinoma (6138). The cathartic properties of senna leaf are greater than the fruit (15430). Thus, the American Herbal Products Association only warns against long-term use of senna leaf (12).

Hepatic ...Chronic liver damage, portal vein thrombosis, and hepatitis have been reported following oral use of senna alkaloids, such as in tea made from senna leaves (13057,13095,41431,74560,74564,74584,105956). There is a case report of hepatitis in a female who consumed moderate amounts of senna tea. The patient was a poor metabolizer of cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6). It's thought that moderate doses of senna in this patient led to toxic hepatitis due to the patient's reduced ability to metabolize and eliminate the rhein anthrone metabolites of senna, which are thought to cause systemic toxicity (13057). There is also a case of liver failure, encephalopathy, and renal insufficiency in a female who consumed 1 liter/day of senna tea, prepared from 70 grams of dried senna fruit, over 3 years (13095). In another case report, a 3-year-old female presented with hepatitis that led to pancytopenia after drinking tea made from 2-3 grams dry senna leaves three times or more weekly for over one year (105956).

Immunologic ...In one case report, a 19-year-old male developed anaphylaxis with dyspnea, facial edema, and hives. This reaction was determined to be caused by the senna content in a specific combination product (Delgaxan Plus, Pompadour Ibérica) that the patient ingested (105957).

Musculoskeletal ...Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy, finger clubbing, cachexia, and tetany have been reported from excessive oral senna use in humans (15426,74580,74582,74620,74625).

Renal ...Nephrocalcinosis has been reported as a result of oral senna overuse (74582).

(Read more about SENNA)

General ...Uva ursi is generally well tolerated in low doses, short-term.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, and vomiting.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: At high doses (20 grams of dried herb), uva ursi has been reported to cause collapse, convulsions, cyanosis, delirium, shortness of breath, and tinnitus. Very high doses of 30 grams or more may be fatal.

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, uva ursi may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset (92148). It can also irritate the gastrointestinal tract (19).

Genitourinary ...Orally, uva ursi may cause the urine to be greenish-brown. It may also cause irritation and inflammation of the urinary tract mucous membranes (18).

Hepatic ...Uva ursi may be hepatotoxic. Theoretically, chronic use, especially in children, can cause liver impairment due its hydroquinone and high tannin content (4,18).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, around 20 grams of uva ursi is reported to supply up to one gram of hydroquinone, which can theoretically cause convulsions and delirium (4).

Ocular/Otic ...Orally, uva ursi may potentially cause retinal toxicity due to its hydroquinone content, which reduces melanin synthesis. A 56-year-old female developed bilateral bull's-eye maculopathy, paracentral scotomas, and retinal thinning after 3 years of uva ursi tea ingestion (16900).
Taking around 20 grams of uva ursi orally is reported to supply up to one gram of hydroquinone, which can theoretically cause tinnitus (4).

Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Orally, around 20 grams of uva ursi is reported to supply up to one gram of hydroquinone, which can theoretically cause shortness of breath and cyanosis (4).

(Read more about UVA URSI)