Herbalism Herbal Safety & Contraindications

Question 1

Which herb is contraindicated throughout pregnancy due to its potent uterine-stimulating (emmenagogue) properties?

Accepted Answer

Pennyroyal

Answer

Lavender

Answer

Oat straw

Answer

Chamomile

Question 2

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) found in comfrey and coltsfoot raise safety concerns primarily because they are:

Accepted Answer

Hepatotoxic and potentially carcinogenic with repeated use

Answer

Mild diuretics that strain the kidneys

Answer

Strong CNS stimulants

Answer

Known allergens causing respiratory reactions

Question 3

Ephedra (ma huang) was banned by the FDA in the US as a dietary supplement in 2004 due to serious risks including:

Accepted Answer

Cardiovascular events including heart attack, stroke, and death

Answer

Severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis

Answer

Liver failure after short-term use

Answer

Acute kidney injury from direct nephrotoxicity

Question 4

Which herb should be used with extreme caution in patients with existing liver disease?

Accepted Answer

Kava kava

Answer

Peppermint leaf

Answer

Nettle leaf

Answer

Calendula

Question 5

Aristolochic acid found in Aristolochia species is notorious for causing:

Accepted Answer

Aristolochic acid nephropathy and urothelial cancer

Answer

Thyroid dysfunction

Answer

Severe photosensitivity rash

Answer

Acute pancreatitis

Question 6

Photosensitizing furanocoumarins are present in which commonly used herbal plant, requiring sun avoidance advice?

Accepted Answer

St. John's Wort

Answer

Valerian

Answer

Ashwagandha

Answer

Milk thistle