Vasoconstrictor Herbs
Summary
Peripheral Vasoconstrictor Herbs
introduction: Peripheral arterial vasoconstrictors are uncommon amongst herbs. Pharmacological mechanisms are poorly understood, but the overall effect is on arterial smooth muscle tone causing an increase in peripheral resistance and hence increase in afterload and consequent elevation of blood pressure. These agents should be distinguished from herbs which cause elevation in blood pressure or heart rate from central and neuroendocrine actions. (See herbal concerns below) Agents that specifically increase venous tone are not included here.
herb affecting drug performance:
Vasoconstrictor herbs may theoretically interact with the following drug classes: to possibly reduce their effectiveness in regulating blood pressure:
ACE Inhibitors
Beta-adrenergic Blockers
Calcium Channel Blockers
Loop Diuretics
Thiazide Diuretics
herbal concerns:
Indirect interaction with other herbs may take place through various physiologic herb action mechanisms with herbs in the following groups:
Hypertensive and Tachycardic Herbs
MAO Inhibitor Herbs
Sympathomimetic Herbs
Xanthine-containing Herbs
Herbs
Common herbs with vasoconstrictor activity:
Ephedra sinica (Ma Huang)
Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel)
Hydrastis canadensis (Goldenseal)
Lycopus virginicus (Bugleweed)
Restricted and unusual herbs with vasoconstrictor activity:
Aspidosperma quebracho (Quebracho blanco)
Cytisus scoparius (Scotch Broom)
Please read the disclaimer concerning the intent
and limitations of the information provided here.
The information presented in Interactions is for
informational and educational purposes only. It is based on scientific
studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, case
reports, and/or traditional usage with sources as cited in each
topic. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all
individuals and different individuals with the same medical conditions
with the same symptoms will often require differing treatments. For
many of the conditions discussed, treatment with conventional medical
therapies, including prescription drugs or over-the-counter
medications, is also available. Consult your physician, an
appropriately trained healthcare practitioner, and/or pharmacist for
any health concern or medical problem before using any herbal products
or nutritional supplements or before making any changes in prescribed
medications and/or before attempting to independently treat a medical
condition using supplements, herbs, remedies, or other forms of
self-care.
Do not rely solely on the information in this article.
References
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Second edition., Sandy, OR: Eclectic Institute Inc, 1998.
McGuffin M, et al. (eds) AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook. CRC Press, 1997.
Newall C, Anderson L, Phillipson JD. Herbal medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals.
London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.