NTA Supplementation & Herbal Medicine Flashcards

A client taking a prescription SSRI asks about adding St. John's Wort for low mood. What is the primary concern?

Answer: Risk of serotonin syndrome and altered drug metabolism via CYP3A4 induction

St. John's Wort has serotonergic activity and induces CYP3A4, so combining it with SSRIs risks serotonin syndrome and drug interactions.

Which licorice preparation is generally preferred for supporting gut lining in a client with high blood pressure?

Answer: DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice)

DGL removes most glycyrrhizin, the compound responsible for sodium retention and raised blood pressure.

Why is peppermint oil for IBS symptoms typically recommended in an enteric-coated form?

Answer: To deliver it to the intestines and reduce heartburn from relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter

Enteric coating lets peppermint oil reach the intestines while avoiding LES relaxation and reflux in the stomach.

A client is taking warfarin. Which herb warrants the most caution due to added bleeding risk?

Answer: Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo inhibits platelet-activating factor and may increase bleeding risk alongside anticoagulants.

Within the NTA framework, bitter herbs such as gentian taken before meals primarily support digestion by:

Answer: Stimulating saliva, stomach acid, enzymes, and bile flow through taste receptor signaling

Bitters trigger cephalic and reflex digestive secretions, priming the north-to-south digestive process.

Which form of magnesium is most associated with a laxative effect and is least ideal for a client seeking calming support without loose stools?

Answer: Magnesium citrate

Magnesium citrate draws water into the bowel and is commonly used for constipation.

A client on levothyroxine wants to take a calcium supplement. What is the best guidance?

Answer: Separate them by at least four hours

Calcium binds levothyroxine in the gut and reduces absorption, so doses should be separated by about four hours.