Tulsi Raspberry Peach by Organic India

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Alzheimer disease. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant berry for Alzheimer disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Atopic dermatitis (eczema). Topical black currant seed oil has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Preliminary clinical research in children aged 2-18 years with atopic dermatitis shows that using a specific cream containing black currant seed oil, sunflower oil, and balloon vine (Defensil), with added dexpanthenol and ceramide, twice daily for 4 weeks, improves atopic dermatitis severity scores similarly to urea 5% cream. About 38% of patients had a 50% improvement in severity score with the combination cream, compared with 35% with urea cream (105538).
• Colic. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant leaf for colic, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Common cold. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant berry for common cold, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Cough. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant leaf for cough, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Diarrhea. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant leaf for diarrhea, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Dry eye. Oral black currant has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Clinical research in adults with dry eye disease shows that taking a specific combination product containing black currant 100 mg, L-carnitine 50 mg, elderberry fruit extract 300 mg, zinc 10 mg, and Eleutherococcus root 50 mg (Meramirt CM) orally once daily improves dry eye symptom scores when compared with no intervention. Contrast sensitivity scores also improved when compared with baseline in the treated group, but not in the control group (111295). It is unclear if this effect is due to black currant, other ingredients, or the combination.
• Dysmenorrhea. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant seed oil for dysmenorrhea, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Glaucoma. It is unclear if oral black currant is beneficial in patients with glaucoma. Details: Preliminary clinical research in adults with glaucoma shows that taking black currant anthocyanins 50 mg orally daily for 4 weeks decreases intraocular pressure (IOP) by 1.5 mmHg when compared with placebo (93696). However, other preliminary clinical research in patients with open-angle glaucoma shows that taking black currant anthocyanins 50 mg orally daily along with standard medications for glaucoma for 24 months does not improve IOP when compared with placebo (93695). Preliminary subgroup analyses suggest that patients taking one or less antiglaucoma medications, but not more than one, may benefit the most from black currant (93695,93696).
• Gout. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant leaf for gout, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Hyperlipidemia. It is unclear if oral black currant seed oil is beneficial in patients with hyperlipidemia. Details: Preliminary clinical research in adults with hyperlipidemia shows that taking black currant seed oil 18 grams orally twice daily for 6 weeks reduces total cholesterol by about 16%, reduces triglycerides by about 34%, and increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol by about 35% when compared with baseline (17638). However, the validity of this study is limited by the lack of a comparator group.
• Hypertension. It is unclear if oral black currant seed oil is beneficial in patients with hypertension. Details: Preliminary clinical research in males with borderline hypertension shows that taking black currant seed oil 6 grams orally daily for 8 weeks does not reduce blood pressure when compared with safflower oil 6 grams daily. However, when stress is induced by a mental arithmetic exercise, black currant seed oil appears to induce a 40% reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure elevations in these patients (35994).
• Influenza. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant berry for influenza, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Insect bite. Although there has been interest in using topical black currant leaf for insect bite, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Japanese cedar pollinosis. It is unclear if oral black currant extract is beneficial in patients with Japanese cedar pollinosis. Details: Preliminary clinical research in patients with Japanese cedar pollinosis shows that taking a black currant polysaccharide extract 540 mg orally twice daily for 8 weeks does not improve nasal symptom scores or swelling when compared with placebo (17635).
• Liver disease. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant leaf for liver disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Menopausal symptoms. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant seed oil for menopausal symptoms, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Muscle fatigue. It is unclear if oral black currant juice extract is beneficial in patients with muscle fatigue. Details: Preliminary clinical research in office workers shows that black currant juice extract, containing 10.83% anthocyanins, taken once orally and dosed as anthocyanins 17 mg/kg, reduces muscle stiffness scores after typing for 30 minutes when compared with placebo (17633).
• Osteoarthritis. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant leaf for osteoarthritis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Although there has been interest in using oral black currant juice for PAD, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Although there has been interest in using oral black currant seed oil for PMS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is unclear if oral black currant seed oil is beneficial in patients with RA. Details: A small clinical study in patients with RA shows that taking black currant seed oil 10.5 grams orally daily for 24 weeks reduces tenderness scores when compared with placebo (35990).
• Rhinosinusitis. Oral black currant has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small clinical study in patients over 12 years of age with chronic sinusitis shows that taking a combination product containing black currant, Boswellia serrata, bromelain, and vitamin D (Flogostop Forte, Humana Italia) with inhaled corticosteroids daily for 30 days reduces rhinorrhea, hyperemia of mucosa, and local inflammation when compared with inhaled corticosteroids alone (111501). It is unclear if these findings are due to black currant, other ingredients, or the combination.
• Seizures. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant leaf for seizures, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). Although there has been interest in using oral black currant berry for URTIs, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs). Although there has been interest in using oral black currant leaf for UTIs, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Venous insufficiency. Although there has been interest in using oral black currant for venous insufficiency, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose.
• Wound healing. Although there has been interest in using topical black currant leaf for wound healing, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of black currant for this purpose. More evidence is needed to rate black currant for these uses.

(Read more about BLACK CURRANT)

POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

• Influenza. Although some small clinical studies show that elderberry extracts can improve influenza symptoms in otherwise healthy adults, a small clinical study enrolling adults and children with or without high risk medical conditions shows it does not reduce the duration of symptoms. Details: Small clinical studies in otherwise healthy adults with influenza presenting within 48 hours of symptom onset show that taking elderberry extract syrup (Sambucol, Nature's Way) 15 mL four times daily for 5 days improves patient ratings of symptoms such as aches and pains, cough, and nasal congestion an average of 4 days earlier than in control groups. It also reduced the use of rescue medications (5260,12235). Another small clinical study in adults shows that taking an elderberry extract lozenge (ViraBLOC, HerbalScience) 175 mg four times daily for 2 days, starting within 24 hours of symptom onset, improves flu-like symptoms, typically within 48 hours, when compared with placebo (17022). However, in a small clinical study in children and adults 5 years and older with influenza, including those with high-risk conditions such as asthma, chronic lung disease, and heart disease, using Sambucol for 5 days starting within 48 hours of symptom onset did not reduce the time to complete resolution of symptoms for a 24-hour period when compared with placebo (103831). These negative findings may be due to the age and baseline health status of the enrolled patients, as well as the use of symptom resolution, as opposed to symptom improvement, as the primary outcome. Elderberry has also been evaluated in combination with echinacea for treating influenza symptoms (95650), but it is not clear whether the combination is better than either ingredient alone.

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Although there is interest in using oral elderberry for allergic rhinitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of elderberry for this purpose.
• Asthenopia (eye strain). Oral elderberry extract has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Preliminary clinical research in adults without dry eye disease with occupations requiring the use of video display terminals shows that taking a specific combination product containing elderberry fruit extract 300 mg, zinc 10 mg, L-carnitine 50 mg, currant 100 mg, and Eleutherococcus root 50 mg (Meramirt CM) once daily for 1 month improves measures of eye strain and contrast sensitivity when compared to baseline. Improvements in these measures were lacking in the control group (111295). Statistical comparison between the two groups was not reported. It is unclear if these effects are due to elderberry, other ingredients, or the combination.
• Cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is unclear whether elderberry has any benefit in CVD. In one small study it did not alter disease markers. Details: Preliminary clinical research in postmenopausal women shows that taking elderberry extract 500 mg daily for 12 weeks does not significantly improve markers of CVD, including inflammatory biomarkers, vascular activity, or plasma lipid or glucose levels, when compared with placebo (21141).
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Elderberry has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Preliminary clinical research in men aged 40-70 years with a history of smoking and Stage 2 COPD, shows that a combination of elderberry 165 mg, heart's ease herb 165 mg, and calendula flowers 165 mg (Inflaminat, INAT-Farma), 3 capsules daily for 6 months modestly improves the score on the 5-point breathlessness, cough, and sputum scale (BCSS) and modestly increases the mean forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), compared with no changes in the placebo group. However, the number of COPD exacerbations per month is not affected (103629). It is unclear if these effects are due to elderberry, the other ingredients, or the combination.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Although there has been interest in using oral elderberry for CFS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of elderberry for this purpose.
• Common cold. Oral elderberry extract does not seem to PREVENT colds when taken prophylactically, but it may reduce the duration and severity of existing colds. Details: Clinical research in healthy adults shows that taking capsules containing elderberry extract (BerryPharma, Iprona AG) 600 mg daily for 8 days before overseas air travel, and then 900 mg daily starting 1 day before traveling and continuing for 4-5 days after arriving at the destination, does not reduce the number of colds or impact quality of life when compared with placebo. However, this product does reduce the duration of colds by about 2 days and the severity of colds by about 58% when compared with placebo (91374).
• Constipation. Oral elderberry extract has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small clinical trial among airline flight crew shows that taking a specific product (ACTIVE) containing elderberry extract 70 mg and a specific probiotic formulation (SYNBIO) daily for 1 month improves constipation, stool volume and consistency, ease of defecation, intestinal regularity, flatulence, and diarrhea compared to baseline, but not when compared with placebo (112134). It is unclear if these effects are due to elderberry, the probiotics, or the combination.
• Gingivitis. Elderberry has been evaluated as a mouthwash or patch in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Preliminary clinical research shows that using a mouth rinse (HM-302, Izun Pharmaceuticals) containing elderberry, echinacea, and gotu kola 15 mL three times daily for 14 days might prevent worsening of gingivitis when compared with a placebo rinse. However, it only minimally improves symptoms (20069). Other preliminary clinical research shows that applying a periodontal patch (PerioPatch, Izun Pharmaceuticals) containing elderberry, echinacea, and gotu kola either as a single dose, or three times daily for 1 day then once daily for 2 days, reduces some, but not all, measures of inflammation and gingivitis when compared with no treatment (20068,20070).
• HIV/AIDS. Although there has been interest in using oral elderberry for HIV/AIDS, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of elderberry for this purpose.
• Hyperlipidemia. It is unclear if elderberry is beneficial for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. Details: One preliminary clinical study in patients with hyperlipidemia shows that taking capsules containing spray-dried elderberry 400 mg, providing 10% anthocyanins, three times daily for 2 weeks does not reduce serum lipids when compared with placebo (21142).
• Lower respiratory tract infections. Oral elderberry extract has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Clinical research in children aged 2-6 years with recurrent respiratory tract infections shows that adding a specific combination product (Stimunex gocce) containing elderberry extract, beta-glucans, zinc, and vitamin D3 to standard therapy does not reduce the number or duration of lower respiratory tract infections when compared with standard therapy alone. In the four months after treatment completion, the number of infections was reduced by about 50%; however, the total number of infections in each group was small. The dose was 1 drop/kg daily for one month, followed by 1 drop/kg daily for 15 consecutive days each month for the next three months (109212). The validity of this study is limited by lack of blinding.
• Obesity. Elderberry has been studied for weight loss in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Observational research in overweight adults shows that replacing all meals for 8 days with a kit containing elderberry juice (from 120 grams of elderberries/day), dried elderberry (225 mg/day), dried elderflower (3.9 grams/day), elderflower extract (600 mg/day), and dried asparagus (40.5 grams/day), while also taking psyllium 2-3 teaspoons daily for 2 weeks, is associated with a mean decrease in body weight of 3.2 kg over 14 days when compared with baseline (94939). The validity of this study is limited by the lack of a comparator group. Also, it is unclear whether this effect is due to elderberry, other ingredients, the combination, or fasting from regular food.
• Psychological well-being. Oral elderberry has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: A small clinical trial among airline flight crew shows that taking a specific product (ACTIVE) containing elderberry extract 70 mg and a specific probiotic formulation (SYNBIO) daily for 1 month improves scores on the Psychological General Well Being Index when compared with placebo. The index measures symptoms of anxiety and depression, general health status, and feelings of vitality and general self-control (112134). It is unclear if these effects are due to elderberry, the probiotics, or the combination.
• Respiratory tract infections. Oral elderberry has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Clinical research in children aged 2-6 years with recurrent respiratory tract infections shows that adding a specific combination product (Stimunex gocce) containing elderberry extract, beta-glucans, zinc, and vitamin D3 to standard therapy reduces the duration of respiratory tract infections by about 1.7 days and modestly improves parent-perceived symptom severity when compared with standard therapy alone. However, there was no effect on the number of total, upper, or lower respiratory tract infections, the use of antibiotics or antipyretics, or the number of days missed from school. The product was dosed as 1 drop/kg daily for one month, followed by 1 drop/kg daily for 15 consecutive days each month for the next three months (109212). The validity of this study is limited by lack of blinding.
• Rhinosinusitis. Although there has been interest in using oral elderberry for rhinosinusitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of elderberry for this purpose.
• Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). Oral elderberry has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Clinical research in children aged 2-6 years with recurrent respiratory tract infections shows that adding a specific combination product (Stimunex gocce) containing elderberry extract, beta-glucans, zinc, and vitamin D3 to standard therapy does not reduce the number or duration of upper respiratory tract infections when compared with standard therapy alone. At four months after treatment completion, the number of infections was reduced by about 44%; however, the total number of infections in both groups was small. The product was dosed as 1 drop/kg daily for one month, followed by 1 drop/kg daily for 15 consecutive days each month for the next three months (109212). The validity of this study is limited by lack of blinding. More evidence is needed to rate elderberry for these uses.

(Read more about ELDERBERRY)

POSSIBLY EFFECTIVE

• Hypertension. Oral Hibiscus sabdariffa seems to lower blood pressure by a small amount in patients with mild to moderate hypertension. Details: Most research shows that drinking Hibiscus sabdariffa tea daily can modestly lower blood pressure in patients with pre-hypertension or mild hypertension after 2-6 weeks of treatment (16894,54985,54995,90159,93817,101730,108867). In addition, some research shows that drinking Hibiscus sabdariffa tea daily can modestly lower blood pressure in patients with either untreated or insufficiently treated mild to moderate hypertension (54989,93815,101733,108867). These studies have used tea made from 1.25-10 grams or 150 mg/kg, brewed in 150 mL to 500 mL of water and taken one to three times daily for 2-6 weeks (16894,54985,54989,54995,90159,93815,93817,101730,101733,108867). The dose has been increased to 15 or 20 grams, brewed in 1000 mL for daily consumption for 2-3 weeks if needed (101733,108867). In this population, research shows that drinking Hibiscus sabdariffa tea or infusions is more effective than hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg daily and as effective as captopril 25 mg twice daily for lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure (54989,93815). Pooled analyses of results from clinical research shows that drinking Hibiscus sabdariffa tea or taking Hibiscus sabdariffa extract lowers systolic blood pressure by 5-8 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by about 4 mmHg in patients with or without mild hypertension (93817,105304). The clinical relevance of these results is uncertain due to the small size and low quality of the included studies. Some researchers suggest that there is insufficient reliable evidence to determine if the effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa are clinically relevant (17114). Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa in combination with other ingredients has also showed beneficial effects on blood pressure in clinical research. In one study, a specific product containing Hibiscus sabdariffa extract in combination with olive leaf extract (NW Roselle) for 8 weeks was found to be as effective as captopril 25 mg twice daily for reducing systolic and diastolic blood pressure (105302). In another study, a specific product (MetabolAid, Monteloeder S.L.) providing Hibiscus sabdariffa and lemon verbena extracts for 12 weeks reduced systolic, but not diastolic, blood pressure. However, these effects were limited to daytime ambulatory readings (105303).

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Cancer. Although there has been interest in using oral Hibiscus sabdariffa for cancer, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa for this condition.
• Constipation. Although there has been interest in using oral Hibiscus sabdariffa for constipation, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa for this purpose.
• Diabetes. It is unclear if oral Hibiscus sabdariffa is beneficial for diabetes. Details: Pooled analyses of results from clinical research show that taking Hibiscus sabdariffa lowers fasting blood glucose levels by approximately 4 mg/dL (105304,105305). However, only one low-quality study included in one of these analyses examined the effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa on fasting blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (105305). Therefore, any benefit specific to this population is unclear.
• Dry mouth. Topical Hibiscus sabdariffa has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Preliminary clinical research in patients with dry mouth shows that taking a specific mucoadhesive tablet (Aqualief, Helsinn Healthcare SA), containing a combination of Hibiscus sabdariffa and carnosine, 400 mg three times daily after meals for 6 days increases saliva production and improves symptoms of dry mouth when compared to baseline. While saliva production was also increased in patients taking placebo, the increase was 3-fold greater with the combination product, and significant improvements in dry mouth symptoms were lacking in the placebo group (103288). It is unclear if these findings are due to Hibiscus sabdariffa, carnosine, or the combination.
• Dry skin. It is unclear if oral Hibiscus sabdariffa is beneficial for dry skin. Details: A crossover clinical study in healthy adults shows that drinking Hibiscus sabdariffa 100 mL twice daily for 6 months improves skin moisture but does not improve skin surface water loss or sebum secretion when compared to baseline (112426). However, it is unclear whether any improvements are clinically significant or apply to patients with dry skin.
• Dyslipidemia. It is unclear if oral Hibiscus sabdariffa is beneficial for dyslipidemia. Details: Some preliminary clinical research shows that drinking Hibiscus sabdariffa tea or taking Hibiscus sabdariffa extract can decrease total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides, and can increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, in patients with metabolic disorders (54997,54999). These studies used Hibiscus sabdariffa 2 grams in 240 mL boiling water, steeping for 20-30 minutes, twice daily and Hibiscus sabdariffa extract 100 mg daily, each for 4 weeks (54997,54999). Clinical research also shows that taking powdered dried Hibiscus sabdariffa 6 grams daily reduces LDL cholesterol by approximately 8% in obese adolescents with dyslipidemia (93816). Additionally, two meta-analyses shows that taking Hibiscus sabdariffa extract modestly reduces LDL cholesterol levels (105305,105306). However, other preliminary clinical research shows that taking Hibiscus sabdariffa extract does not improve cholesterol or triglyceride levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia (17415,55000). Two pooled analyses of clinical data show that Hibiscus sabdariffa does not improve total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, or triglycerides when compared with placebo, a change in diet, or black tea in patients with hyperlipidemia, metabolic disorders, or obesity (93805,105304). The differing conclusions of these trials and meta-analyses are related to their inclusion and exclusion criteria with respect to age and populations of focus.
• Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis). Although there has been interest in using oral Hibiscus sabdariffa for kidney stones, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa for this condition.
• Metabolic syndrome. Some small clinical studies suggest that oral Hibiscus sabdariffa may be beneficial for metabolic syndrome. Details: In adults with metabolic syndrome, a small clinical trial shows that taking Hibiscus sabdariffa powder 500 mg daily for 4 weeks modestly reduces systolic blood pressure and triglyceride levels by 5% and 15%, respectively, when compared with baseline. These changes were significant when compared with placebo. However, there was no effect on diastolic blood pressure, fasting glucose or insulin levels, cholesterol levels, or body mass index (105307). Other preliminary clinical research in adults with metabolic syndrome shows that taking Hibiscus sabdariffa extract 100 mg daily for one month modestly reduces fasting glucose and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels when compared with baseline. When taken in combination with recommendations to follow the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATP III) diet, triglyceride levels and blood pressure were also modestly reduced (54999).
• Obesity. Oral Hibiscus sabdariffa has only been evaluated in combination with other ingredients; its effect when used alone is unclear. Details: Two small clinical trials in overweight and obese females show that taking a combination product (MetabolAid, Monteloeder SL) containing Hibiscus sabdariffa and lemon verbena extracts as 500 mg per capsule daily for 2 months modestly increases weight loss when compared with placebo (97290,101731). This combination also reduces hunger and increases satiety, and has small to moderate beneficial effects on low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, heart rate, and blood pressure (97290). The effects in obese individuals seem to be less than those seen in overweight individuals, with no overall change in abdominal circumference or percent body fat in obese individuals (101731). A meta-analysis of these two studies and several others in overweight or obese individuals shows that taking Hibiscus sabdariffa in combination with other ingredients daily for 6-12 weeks modestly improves body mass index, weight, and body fat percentage when compared with control (112427). However, the validity of these results is limited by the heterogeneity of the included studies. Additionally, it is unknown if these effects are due to Hibiscus sabdariffa, other ingredients, or the combination.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs). It is unclear if oral Hibiscus sabdariffa is beneficial for UTIs. Details: Population research in patients with urinary catheters living in long-term care facilities has found that drinking Hibiscus sabdariffa tea is associated with a 36% lower risk of UTIs when compared with not drinking tea (93807). Some small clinical studies that have evaluated the use of Hibiscus sabdariffa in combination with other ingredients suggest that they might reduce the occurrence of symptomatic UTIs in females with recurrent UTIs. One study used a product containing Hibiscus sabdariffa 200 mg, D-mannose 1000 mg, and Lactobacillus plantarum Lp-115 (1 billion colony forming units) daily for 15 days each month for 6 months (101734); the other study used a specific product (Monurelle Plus, Zambon Italia) containing Hibiscus sabdariffa 100 mg, xyloglucan 100 mg, gelatin 50 mg, and propolis 100 mg twice daily for 14 days (101735). Also, a small observational study in patients with an uncomplicated UTI has found that taking two tablets of a specific combination product (Acidif plus) containing Hibiscus sabdariffa extract 100 mg, boswellia gummy dry extract 100 mg, and L-methionine 400 mg daily for 7 days is associated with reduced UTI symptoms and reduced bacteriuria when compared with taking an unreported dose of fosfomycin for two days (103783). However, due to the poor quality of these studies, the magnitude of benefit is unclear. Also, it is unknown whether these effects are due to Hibiscus sabdariffa, other ingredients, or the combination.
• Wound healing. Although there has been interest in using topical Hibiscus sabdariffa for wound healing, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa for this purpose.

  More evidence is needed to rate Hibiscus sabdariffa for these uses.

(Read more about HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA)

INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE

• Aging. Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for aging, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.
• Asthma. Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for asthma, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this condition.
• Dental plaque. Small clinical studies suggest that topical use of holy basil mouthwash, gel, or toothpaste may modestly reduce the severity of dental plaque. Details: Small clinical studies in patients with mild to moderate dental plaque or gingivitis shows that using 10 mL of a mouthwash containing holy basil leaf extract 4% twice daily for 30 days reduces plaque severity by about 17% to 28% when compared with baseline (91570,103621). In one study, this effect was significant when compared with a placebo mouthwash and similar to a mouthwash containing chlorhexidine 0.12% (91570), whereas the other study did not conduct comparisons between study groups (103621). A small clinical study in patients with chronic gingivitis shows that applying holy basil extract 2% gel as a gingival massage twice daily for 30 days reduces plaque severity when compared with baseline (110030). The validity of this finding is limited by the lack of statistical comparison to the other study groups. Also, a small clinical trial in children 14-15 years of age shows that brushing with toothpaste containing holy basil leaf extract 4% twice daily for 3 weeks reduces plaque severity when compared with placebo, with similar improvements when compared with a fluorinated toothpaste (104183). Holy basil has also been evaluated in combination with other ingredients. A small study shows that rinsing with 10 mL of a solution containing tea tree oil, clove, and holy basil (0.2% to 0.3% of each), for 30 seconds twice daily for 21 days, reduces plaque formation by 64%. This reduction is similar to a 72% reduction seen in the active control group using a mouth rinse containing thymol, eucalyptol, menthol, and methyl salicylate (91446).
• Diabetes. Small clinical studies suggest that oral holy basil may modestly improve glycemic control in patients with diabetes. Details: One small clinical trial in adults with type 2 diabetes shows that taking holy basil dried leaf powder 2.5 grams daily for 4 weeks decreases fasting and postprandial blood glucose by 18%, compared with a 7% reduction in those taking placebo (12242). Another small clinical study in patients with type 2 diabetes shows that taking holy basil 250 mg twice daily in combination with glyburide 5 mg daily for 3 months reduces fasting blood glucose by 16%, postprandial blood glucose by 13%, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels by 18% when compared with glyburide alone (91571).
• Dyspepsia. Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for dyspepsia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It is unclear if oral holy basil is beneficial in patients with GAD. Details: One small, uncontrolled clinical study in patients with GAD shows that taking holy basil leaf extract 500 mg twice daily following meals for 60 days reduces anxiety and associated symptoms of stress and depression when compared to baseline (19575). The validity of these findings is limited by a lack of control group.
• Gingivitis. Small clinical studies suggest that topical use of holy basil mouthwash or toothpaste may modestly improve gingivitis. Details: Small clinical studies in patients with mild to moderate dental plaque or gingivitis shows that using 10 mL of a mouthwash containing holy basil leaf extract 4% twice daily for 30 days reduces gingivitis by about 23% to 40% when compared with baseline (91570,103621). In one study, these effects were significant when compared with placebo mouthwash and similar to those of a mouthwash containing chlorhexidine 0.12% (91570), whereas the other study did not conduct statistical comparisons between study groups (103621). A small clinical trial in children 14-15 years of age shows that brushing with toothpaste containing holy basil leaf extract 4% twice daily for 3 weeks reduces the severity of gingivitis when compared with placebo, with similar improvements when compared with a fluorinated toothpaste (104183). However, a small clinical study in patients with chronic gingivitis shows that applying holy basil leaf extract 2% gel as a gingival massage twice daily for 30 days does not reduce gingivitis severity when compared with baseline (110030). Holy basil has also been evaluated in combination with other ingredients. A small clinical study shows that rinsing with 10 mL of a solution containing tea tree oil, clove, and holy basil (0.2% to 0.3% of each), for 30 seconds twice daily for 21 days, reduces gum inflammation by 76%. This reduction is similar to a 70% reduction seen in the active control group using a mouth rinse containing thymol, eucalyptol, menthol, and methyl salicylate (91446).
• Headache. Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for headache, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.
• Hepatitis. Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for hepatitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this condition.
• Hypercholesterolemia. Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for hypercholesterolemia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.
• Hypertension. Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for hypertension, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.
• Insect repellent. Although there has been interest in using topical holy basil as an insect repellent, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose.
• Insomnia. It is unclear if oral holy basil is beneficial for sleep problems. Details: A moderate-sized clinical study in adults with stress and sleep problems (i.e., unrefreshing sleep or difficulty falling or staying asleep) shows that taking holy basil 125 mg twice daily for 8 weeks does not improve patient-reported or wearable tracker scores related to sleep when compared with placebo (112416). However, the interpretation of these results is limited by self-reported outcomes and use of a non-validated measurement tool for sleep (i.e., Fitbit device).
• Obesity. It is unclear if oral holy basil is beneficial in overweight or obese patients. Details: One small clinical study in individuals with overweight or obesity shows that taking holy basil extract 250 mg twice daily for 8 weeks slightly reduces body weight and improves levels of triglycerides or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and certain glycemic indices when compared to baseline, but not when compared with no treatment. Holy basil extract also did not improve liver enzymes when compared to baseline or with no treatment (96944).
• Oral submucous fibrosis. It is unclear if topical holy basil paste is beneficial for oral submucous fibrosis. Details: A moderate-sized clinical study in adults with oral submucous fibrosis conducted in India shows that applying a paste containing holy basil extract 250 mg intraorally twice daily for 1 month modestly improves mouth opening scores and patient-reported burning sensation at the 3 month follow up when compared to baseline (112424). However, the validity of these findings is limited by poor methodology and lack of a comparator group.
• Respiratory tract infections. Although there has been interest in using oral holy basil for respiratory tract infections, including bronchitis, common cold, influenza, and tuberculosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for these conditions.
• Stress. It is unclear if oral holy basil is beneficial in patients with stress. Details: One small clinical trial in patients experiencing various symptoms of stress shows that taking a specific holy basil extract (OciBest, Natural Remedies Pvt. Ltd.) 400 mg in the morning and 800 mg at night for 6 weeks decreases self-reported symptoms of stress, including forgetfulness, sexual problems and sleep problems of recent origin, and frequency of exhaustion, when compared with placebo (18107). A moderate-sized clinical study in adults with stress and sleep problems shows that taking holy basil 125 mg twice daily for 8 weeks modestly improves stress scores but does not improve individual symptoms related to stress including anxiety, mood disturbance, physical function, depression, fatigue, or sleep disturbance when compared with placebo (112416). However, the interpretation of these findings is limited by self-reported outcome measures and unclear clinical significance.
• Tinea corporis. Although there has been interest in using topical holy basil for tinea corporis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of holy basil for this purpose. More evidence is needed to rate holy basil for these uses.

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LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately. Black currant juice, leaves, and flowers have Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912). Black currant juice up to 3000 mL daily for up to 3 weeks (17636,35987), black currant extracts 1080 mg daily for 8 weeks (17635,93695), and black currant seed oil products up to 10.5 grams daily for 24 weeks (4016,17634,17638,35990) have also been used safely in clinical research. There is insufficient reliable information about the safety of black currant when used topically.

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

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LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in the amounts typically found in foods. Elderberry has generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912).

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when elderberry fruit extract is used orally, short-term. One specific elderberry fruit extract (Sambucol, Nature's Way) has been used with apparent safety for up to 5 days (5260,12235,103831); another (BerryPharma, Iprona AG) has been used with apparent safety for up to 15 days (91374). A specific elderberry fruit extract lozenge (ViraBLOC, HerbalScience) has been used with apparent safety for 2 days (17022). Other elderberry fruit extracts have been used with apparent safety for up to 12 weeks (21141,21142).

POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when elder tree leaves and stems, or unripe or uncooked elderberries, are consumed. The unripe green fruit, as well as the leaves and stems of the elder tree, contain a cyanide-producing chemical, which can cause serious toxicity (17020,17021,21143,21144,91374). Cooking eliminates the toxin.

CHILDREN: LIKELY SAFE
when consumed in the amounts typically found in foods.

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally for up to 3 days. A specific fruit extract (Sambucol, Nature's Way) has been used in doses of 15 mL twice daily for 3 days in children 5 years and older (5260,103831).

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when unripe or uncooked elderberries are consumed. The unripe green fruit, as well as the leaves and stems of the elder tree, contain a cyanide-producing chemical , which can cause serious toxicity (17020,17021,21143,21144,91374). Cooking eliminates the toxin.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when consumed in the amounts typically found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of elderberry when used for medicinal purposes; avoid using in amounts greater than those found in foods.

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

POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts. Hibiscus sabdariffa tea has been safely consumed in amounts of up to 720 mL daily for up to 6 weeks (16894,93805,93814). Hibiscus sabdariffa extracts, including a specific Hibiscus sabdariffa leaf extract (Green Chem), have also been safely used in doses of up to 1000 mg daily for up to 90 days (17415,54989,93805,93809,105307).

CHILDREN: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally and appropriately. Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx powder has been used with apparent safety at a dose of 2 grams three times daily for 4 weeks by adolescents aged 12-18 years (93816).

PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally. Hibiscus sabdariffa is thought to be a menstrual stimulant, and might have abortifacient effects (19).

LACTATION: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in large amounts. Animal research found that administering large doses of Hibiscus sabdariffa during lactation decreases food and water intake during pregnancy and delays puberty in offspring (93810); however, this has not been assessed in humans.

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POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally, short-term. Holy basil leaf extract has been used with apparent safety at a dose of 500 mg daily for 60-90 days (12242,18107,19575,91571,96944). ...when used topically in the mouth, short-term. Holy basil has been used with apparent safety as a 4% mouthwash solution for up to 30 days (91570,103621).

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used in high doses during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Animal research suggests that relatively high doses of holy basil extract (200 mg/kg) may reduce implantation rate when used for one week, while long-term use of higher doses (2-4 grams/kg) may decrease the number of full-term pregnancies (55040,91569). There is insufficient reliable information available regarding the safety of holy basil during lactation; avoid using.

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ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, black currant seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding if used in combination with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.  Details Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a constituent of black currant seed oil, appears to have antiplatelet effects (1979,35995).

PHENOTHIAZINES Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, black currant seed oil might increase the risk of seizure in patients receiving phenothiazines.  Details Black currant seed oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). There is some concern that taking supplements containing GLA might cause seizures, or lower the seizure threshold, when taken with phenothiazines, although there is no evidence that black currant seed oil causes seizures (88187). In one report, three patients with schizophrenia who had received phenothiazines developed EEG changes suggestive of temporal lobe epilepsy after starting treatment with GLA, although none experienced an actual seizure (21013). In another report, two patients with schizophrenia who were stabilized on phenothiazines developed seizures when evening primrose 4 grams daily, which contains GLA, was added. One of these patients had a prior history of seizures (21010).

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IMMUNOSUPPRESSANTS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = B Theoretically, elderberry might interfere with immunosuppressant therapy due to its immunostimulant activity.  Details Elderberry has immunostimulant activity, increasing the production of cytokines, including interleukin and tumor necrosis factor (10796).

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ACETAMINOPHEN (Tylenol, others) Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Insignificant •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = B Theoretically, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa with acetaminophen might decrease the clinical effects of acetaminophen.  Details There is some evidence that consuming a Hibiscus sabdariffa beverage (Zobo drink) before taking acetaminophen can decrease the elimination half-life of acetaminophen. Hibiscus sabdariffa does not seem to decrease maximum concentration or area under the curve of acetaminophen (12184). The clinical significance of this is unknown.

ANTIDIABETES DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.  Details Most clinical research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa can reduce blood glucose levels (54999,105304,105305).

ANTIHYPERTENSIVE DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.  Details Most clinical evidence suggests that taking Hibiscus sabdariffa reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure (16894,54985,54995,105304). In animal research, Hibiscus sabdariffa increased the hypotensive effects of single doses of losartan and amlodipine (102459,107901).

CHLOROQUINE (Aralen) Interaction Rating = Major Do not take this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = B Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa tea along with chloroquine seems to reduce levels of chloroquine.  Details When taken together, Hibiscus sabdariffa tea significantly reduces the bioavailability of chloroquine (55004). This may reduce its clinical effects. People taking chloroquine for the treatment or prevention of malaria should avoid Hibiscus sabdariffa tea.

CYTOCHROME P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP1A2 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP1A2 (93811). This interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2A6 (CYP2A6) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2A6 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2A6 (93811). This interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2B6 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2B6 (93811). This interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2C19 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2C19 (93811). This interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2C8 (CYP2C8) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa might reduce the metabolism of CYP2C8 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2C8 (93811). This interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2C9 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2C9 (93811). This interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2D6 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2D6 (93811). This interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP2E1 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP2E1 (93811). This interaction has not been reported in humans.

CYTOCHROME P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) SUBSTRATES Interaction Rating = Minor Be watchful with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa extract might reduce the metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates.  Details In vitro research shows that Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract inhibits CYP3A4 (93811). This interaction has not been reported in humans.

DICLOFENAC (Voltaren, others) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = B Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa with diclofenac may increase the levels and adverse effects of diclofenac.  Details Pharmacokinetic research in humans shows that drinking a beverage made with Hibiscus sabdariffa flowers reduces the excretion of diclofenac by approximately 38% when compared with water. The clinical significance of this is unknown (101726).

LOSARTAN (Cozaar) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, Hibiscus sabdariffa might increase the levels and clinical effects of losartan.  Details Animal research in rats with laboratory-induced hypertension shows that providing Hibiscus sabdariffa for 14-17 days prior to a single administration with losartan modestly increases losartan concentrations and increases hypotensive effects when compared with a single administration of losartan alone (102459). It is not clear if Hibiscus sabdariffa alters the concentration or effects of losartan when taken continuously. Additionally, this interaction has not been shown in humans.

SIMVASTATIN (Zocor) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Mild •  Occurrence = Probable •  Level of Evidence = B Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa with simvastatin might reduce the levels and clinical effects of simvastatin.  Details A pharmacokinetic study in humans shows that taking a beverage prepared with dried Hibiscus sabdariffa flower 300 grams concurrently with a single dose of simvastatin 40 mg increases the clearance of simvastatin by about 45% and reduces peak levels of simvastatin by 18% (96270).

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ANTICOAGULANT/ANTIPLATELET DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.  Details Animal research shows that holy basil seed oil can prolong bleeding time, possibly due to inhibition of platelet aggregation (13251). However, it is not known if this occurs in humans.

ANTIDIABETES DRUGS Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = Moderate •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = B Theoretically, holy basil might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.  Details Small clinical studies show that taking holy basil can decrease fasting blood glucose and other measures of glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes (12242,91571).

PENTOBARBITAL (Nembutal) Interaction Rating = Moderate Be cautious with this combination. Severity = High •  Occurrence = Possible •  Level of Evidence = D Theoretically, holy basil seed oil might increase the sedative effects of pentobarbital.  Details Animal research shows that holy basil seed oil increases pentobarbitone-induced sleeping time (13056,13251). However, it is not known if this occurs in humans or if this applies to other barbiturates or sedatives.

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General ...Orally, black currant is generally well-tolerated. Topically, there is a limited amount of information on the adverse effects of black currant.

Gastrointestinal ...Of 2154 patients with hyperlipidemia taking black currant seed oil 1. 8 grams twice daily for 6 weeks, 8 reports of mild diarrhea were considered related to the supplement. These adverse reactions were reported 2-10 days after beginning treatment with black currant seed oil (17638).

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General ...Orally, elderberry extracts prepared from ripe fruit seem to be well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: When adverse effects occur, they are likely due to ingestion of raw and unripe elderberries, or seeds, leaves, and other plant parts. Due to cyanogenic glycosides, these may cause nausea, vomiting, severe diarrhea, weakness, dizziness, numbness, and stupor. Cooking eliminates the toxin.

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, nausea and vomiting have been reported after consuming a specific elderberry and echinacea product Vogel Bioforce AG) (95650). However, it is unclear if this was due to the elderberry or Echinacea contained in the product.
Raw and unripe elderberries, and the seeds, leaves, and other elder tree parts might cause nausea, vomiting, or severe diarrhea due to cyanogenic glycosides (17020,17021). Cooking eliminates the toxin.

Hepatic ...In one case report, a 60-year-old female with underlying autoimmune disease presented with autoimmune hepatitis after taking elderberry at an unknown dose for several years. The patient presented with nausea, jaundice, abdominal pain, and abdominal distention. Liver function tests returned to baseline 4 weeks after initiating treatment with prednisone 40 mg daily and discontinuing elderberry (110123).

Immunologic ...Elder tree pollen might cause an allergic reaction characterized by rhinitis and dyspnea in some patients who are allergic to grass pollen. These patients might also experience an allergic reaction to elderberry extracts (11095).

Neurologic/CNS ...Raw and unripe elderberries might cause weakness, dizziness, numbness, and stupor due to cyanogenic glycosides (17020,17021). Cooking eliminates the toxin.

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General ...Orally, Hibiscus sabdariffa is generally well tolerated.

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, taking a specific Hibiscus sabdariffa leaf extract (Green Chem) 1 gram daily has been associated with reports of transient gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal distention, flatulence, and epigastric pain in one clinical trial. However, the overall rate of these adverse effects was similar to placebo (17415). Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract 6 grams daily has been associated with single cases of nausea in one clinical trial (55000). Taking Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx powder 6 grams daily has been associated with reports of mild and transient constipation in one clinical trial (93816). Taking 0.5-1 liters of tea daily, made by steeping 10-15 grams of dried Hibiscus sabdariffa calyces, has been associated with one report of stomach pain in one clinical trial (101733).

Genitourinary ...Orally, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract 6 grams daily has been associated with one report of dysuria in one clinical trial (55000).

Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract 3 grams daily has been associated with one report of tremor and headache in one clinical trial (55000).

Ocular/Otic ...Orally, taking Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx extract 3 grams daily has been associated with one report of tinnitus in one clinical trial (55000).

Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Taking 0. 5-1 liters of tea daily, made by steeping 10, 15, or 20 grams of dried Hibiscus sabdariffa calyces, has been associated with two reports of dyspnea in one clinical trial. A clear association with Hibiscus sabdariffa could not be made (101733).

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General ...Orally and topically, holy basil extract seems to be well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Loose stools and nausea.
Topically: Bitter taste with oral application.

Gastrointestinal ...Orally, two out of 24 participants taking capsules containing holy basil extract in one clinical study experienced nausea or loose stools (55037).
Topically, holy basil mouthwash has been reported to cause a bitter taste in clinical trials (55038).

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