Dandelion (oaraxacum officinale) • fennel (foeniculum vulgare) • African Geranium (pelargonium reniforme).
This product is used for Detoxification .
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The manufacturer of this product refuses to disclose specific details about the ingredients.
Below is general information about the effectiveness of the known ingredients contained in the product Detox Drops. 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
Below is general information about the safety of the known ingredients contained in the product Detox Drops. 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 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 a specific detoxification plan, the Wellnessup detoxification diet, is used for up to 4 weeks This diet, consisting of organic fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, has been used with apparent safety (104877).
POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when coffee enemas are used rectally for detoxification. Coffee enemas have been linked to cases of severe electrolyte abnormalities and septicemia leading to severe side effects including death (3026,3347,3349,6652). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of other methods of detoxification.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. Fennel has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when fennel essential oil or extract is used orally and appropriately, short-term. Twenty-five drops (about 1.25 mL) of fennel fruit extract standardized to fennel 2% essential oil has been safely used four times daily for 5 days (49422). Also, two 100 mg capsules each containing fennel 30% essential oil standardized to 71-90 mg of anethole has been safely used daily for 8 weeks (97498). Powdered fennel extract has been used with apparent safety at a dose of 800 mg daily for 2 weeks (104199). ...when creams containing fennel 2% to 5% are applied topically (49429,92509).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when combination products containing fennel are used to treat colic in infants for up to one week.
Studied products include up to 20 mL of a fennel seed oil emulsion; a specific product (ColiMil) containing fennel 164 mg, lemon balm 97 mg, and German chamomile 178 mg; and up to 450 mL of a specific tea (Calma-Bebi, Bonomelli) containing fennel, chamomile, vervain, licorice, and lemon balm (16735,19715,49428).
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally.
Observational research has found that regular use of fennel during pregnancy is associated with shortened gestation (100513).
LACTATION: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally.
Case reports have linked consumption of an herbal tea containing extracts of fennel, licorice, anise, and goat's rue to neurotoxicity in two breast-feeding infants. The adverse effect was attributed to anethole, a constituent of fennel and anise (16744). However, levels of anethole were not measured in breastmilk, and the herbal tea was not tested for contaminants. Furthermore, other adverse effects related to use of fennel during lactation have not been reported. However, until more is known, avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally or appropriately, short-term. A specific extract of Pelargonium sidoides (EPs 7630, Dr. Willmar Schwabe Pharmaceuticals), in doses of 4.5-9 mL daily when administered as a solution or 90 mg daily when administered as a tablet, has been safely used for up to 24 weeks (14258,16641,16647,16649,16651,17417,81557,81565,94580,97318)(97319,106647). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of Pelargonium sidoides when used orally, long-term.
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately, short-term.
A specific extract of Pelargonium sidoides (EPs 7630, Dr. Willmar Schwabe Pharmaceuticals) in doses of 3 mL daily has been used with apparent safety in children aged 6-10 years for up to 7 days (14262,16641,16651,17417,94580).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
Below is general information about the interactions of the known ingredients contained in the product Detox Drops. 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, taking dandelion root along with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Dandelion contains significant amounts of potassium (13465).
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Theoretically, dandelion might lower fluoroquinolone levels.
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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, fennel might increase the risk of bleeding when used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs.
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Theoretically, fennel might decrease the levels and clinical effects of ciprofloxacin.
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Animal research shows that fennel reduces ciprofloxacin bioavailability by nearly 50%, possibly due to the metal cations such as calcium, iron, and magnesium contained in fennel. This study also found that fennel increased tissue distribution and slowed elimination of ciprofloxacin (6135). |
Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might decrease the effects of contraceptive drugs due to competition for estrogen receptors.
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Theoretically, fennel might increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
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Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might interfere with hormone replacement therapy due to competition for estrogen receptors.
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Theoretically, taking large amounts of fennel might decrease the antiestrogenic effect of tamoxifen.
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Some constituents of fennel have estrogenic activity (11), which may interfere with the antiestrogenic activity of tamoxifen. |
Theoretically, Pelargonium sidoides might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs.
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Theoretically, Pelargonium sidoides might decrease the effectiveness of immunosuppressant therapy.
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Below is general information about the adverse effects of the known ingredients contained in the product Detox Drops. 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, 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
...The safety and adverse effects of detoxification depend on the method and substances used.
Most information available on potential adverse effects is based only on anecdotal reports.
Orally, detoxification regimens that involve high fiber intake can cause constipation. Regimens that involve the use of laxatives can cause diarrhea. Detoxification that reduces protein intake can cause mood changes, fatigue, tiredness, and other symptoms. Regimens that involve long-term fasting can cause vitamin and mineral deficiencies, protein deficiency, lactic acidosis, and death. Also, regimens that involve implementing extreme stress on the body can lead to electrolyte imbalances (93688,99478). Conversely, no adverse effects have been reported with the Wellnessup detoxification diet, which consists of organic fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. However, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted (104877).
Rectally, coffee enemas used for detoxification have been linked to at least three deaths. Two of these deaths are related to severe electrolyte imbalance, and a third is associated with polymicrobial septicemia following use of coffee enema (3026,3347,3349,6652). Coffee enemas have also been reported to cause proctocolitis (96868,103273).
Gastrointestinal
...Detoxification that involves significantly altering the types of foods consumed can result in several potential side effects.
Diets that eliminate caffeine may result in diarrhea, which can lead to fluid and electrolyte loss and dehydration. High fiber diets sometimes result in constipation. Detoxification programs often include laxatives. These can cause significant diarrhea leading to fluid loss and electrolyte imbalances.
At least 5 cases of proctocolitis related to the use of coffee enemas have been reported (96868,103273).
Neurologic/CNS
...Detoxification that eliminates caffeine can result in caffeine withdrawal headaches.
Detoxification that eliminates or reduces protein intake by eliminating meat can result in mood changes, fatigue, tiredness, and a variety of other symptoms.
In one case, serotonin syndrome was reported in a 19-year-old man attempting detoxification with tryptophan and St. John's wort after using MDMA (ecstasy) (93688).
Renal ...Certain types of detoxification practices can cause electrolyte imbalances. For example, there was a case of severe hyponatremia after a sauna sweating "purification" practice from the Hubbard Purification Rundown (99478).
Other
...Some methods of fasting can be safe short-term; however, long-term or extreme fasting can result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies, protein deficiency, lactic acidosis, and death (93688).
Rectally administered coffee enemas used for detoxification have been linked to at least three deaths. Two of these deaths were related to severe electrolyte imbalance, and a third was associated with polymicrobial septicemia following use of coffee enema (3026,3347,3349,6652).
General
...Orally and topically, fennel seems to be well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Gastrointestinal discomfort, photosensitivity, and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Seizures.
Dermatologic ...Advise patients to avoid excessive sunlight or ultraviolet light exposure while using fennel (19). Allergic reactions affecting the skin such as atopic dermatitis and photosensitivity may occur in patients who consume fennel (6178,49507).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, fennel may cause gastrointestinal complaints, including nausea and vomiting (19146,104196).
Hematologic ...Methemoglobinemia has been reported in four infants following intoxication related to ingestion of a homemade fennel puree that may have been made from improperly stored fennel (49444).
Immunologic ...A case report describes an 11-year-old male who developed an allergy to fennel-containing toothpaste. Immediately after using the toothpaste, the patient experienced sneezing, coughing, itchy mouth, rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and palpitations, which resolved within 10 minutes of spitting out the toothpaste and rinsing the mouth. In challenge tests, the patient reacted to chewing fresh fennel root, but not ground fennel seeds (103822).
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, fennel oil has been associated with tonic clonic and generalized seizures (12868). New-onset cluster headaches are reported in a 24-year-old female while using a toothpaste containing fennel and camphor for 3 months. The headaches resolved upon stopping the toothpaste (112368). It is unclear if this adverse effect can be attributed to fennel, camphor, or the combination.
Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Orally, fennel and fennel seed have been reported to cause bronchial asthma (49478).
General
...Orally, Pelargonium sidoides is generally well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Allergic skin rash, diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset.
Cardiovascular ...Orally, Pelargonium sidoides has been reported to cause small increases in body temperature and pulse during clinical trials (16649,17417).
Dermatologic ...Orally, Pelargonium sidoides has been associated with allergic skin rash (14262,81557).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, Pelargonium sidoides has been associated with gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea (14262,81557,97318,97319,106647,112123).
Hematologic ...Orally, Pelargonium sidoides has been associated with epistaxis in one clinical trial (97318).
Hepatic ...Orally, Pelargonium sidoides does not appear to cause hepatotoxicity. Evaluations of hepatotoxicity cases in patients taking Pelargonium sidoides show it was only possibly associated in 4 of the 28 reported cases. In the remaining 24 cases, Pelargonium sidoides was unlikely to be the cause of hepatotoxicity, or was excluded as the cause. Other causes of hepatotoxicity in these cases included infectious disease, pre-existing liver disease, acute pancreatitis, and hepatotoxicity due to conventional medication use (94578,94579).
Immunologic ...Orally, Pelargonium sidoides has been associated with over 34 reports of allergic reactions (81567). Urticaria is the most common reaction but there were also cases of conjunctivitis, rhinitis, and systemic allergic reactions including bronchospasm, dyspnea, tachycardia, and circulatory failure (16651,81567).