Climate Conversations – Individual Action to Impact Climate Change

Speaker: Vincent Schutt of EnvironmentumWritten by: Esha & Sheena Jain

Overview:

Vincent Schutt, the director and co-founder of Enviromentum took a remarkably appealing approach when discussing the impact of individual action to climate change. He focused on 3 main principles, which included: what best represents your values in life; what effects of climate change concerns you and finally what steps do you currently take to aid in mitigating climate change. The intention of the exercise was to illustrate there is no need to worry about the logistics regarding environmental concerns; as it only brings upon a sense of impending doom and uncontrollable fear for what the future holds. He suggested that rather the emphasis be placed on your values so that one can take more actions based on these values. This method prevents one from enforcing their views upon others. Instead, it assists individuals in discovering what is important to them, which allows them to connect their behaviors to their values. This strategy permits individuals to discover their own motivation to make a change.  

Discussion Questions:

1.  How can communicating the importance of climate change be more effective, such that individuals will want to take action? (Where do the discrepancies lie? – what can be done to change this?)

Sander van der Linden, et al, reviewed psychological research regarding climate change communication. 5 discoveries were made:

1.       People are more likely to respond to personal experience than to abstract analysis. This is problematic as climate change is described in statistically abstract terminology. Perhaps if the information was translated into relatable personal experiences, people may have a better understanding.
2.       Motivating individuals to take action is difficult. Therefore rewarding the community norms can encourage pro-environmental behavior.
3.       Climate change can seem like an issue that is distant in time and space, thus easier to ignore. Therefore if it was communicating in a way that may focus on regional changes that are close in time and space –as individuals can see and relate it to their own communities.
4.       The research shows that people’s attitudes regarding risk depends on losses and gains. Such that people are willing to tolerate the risk of dealing with losses. Perhaps switching the policy conversation that focuses on positive benefits and gains of immediate action may cause an increase in public support.
5.       Research found that motivating behavior with extrinsic financial incentives for conserving energy may be more effective when combined with the appeals of people’s intrinsic motivation to improve the wellbeing of others and care for the environment. Thus requiring external incentives to motivate individual action.

Overall it has been found that a method in which mitigating climate change effectively involves the insight from social scientists and psychologists. As they can assist in changing individual attitudes and behaviors, by providing a different approach and motivation for individuals to begin to indeed take action, but that too on their own terms.

2.       What are some examples of things I can do to mitigate climate change?

Transportation	Reduce/Reuse/Recycle	Advocacy	Consumption Habits	Conservation
-TTC -Bike -Walk -Go train -car pool	-eat less meat -compost & recycle -recycle electronics -use reusable bottle -repurpose waste	-talk with community -donate -volunteer	-buy organic -buy local -buy 2nd  hand -host garage sale -repair before replace	-save H20 (showering, shaving, brushing teeth) -save energy (lights, power strips, appliances) -insulate home

3.       How do I start reducing and reusing items?
4.         Start by looking for products with less packaging. When manufacturers use less packaging, they use less raw

materials. This aids in reducing waste and costs.

1.   Purchase items in bulk, which can also save money and reduce packaging waste.

iii.  Purchase reusable items vs disposable ones.

1.  Try to maintain and repair products (i.e. clothing, appliance etc.)
2.   To create less waste, try reusing old party decorations or borrowing them from a friend.
3.       What are the benefits of reducing waste and reusing items?
4.      Reusing items prevents pollution from being caused because it reduces the need to collect new raw materials,

       thus saving energy and money

1.    By recycling items, you help in reducing greenhouse gas emission

iii.   By making an effort in reducing waste and reusing items, you assist in sustaining the environment for future

      generations

1.   By decreasing the amount of waste, you reduce what needs to be recycled or sent to landfills or incinerators

Sources:

COMMENTARY ON SCIENCE AND SOCIETY. "How Psychology Can Save The World From Climate Change." NPR. NPR, n.d. Web. 24 June 2016. (http://www.npr.org/sections/13.7/2015/11/30/457835780/how-psychology-can-save-the-world-from-climate-change)

US Environmental Protection Agency. "Reducing and Reusing Basics." EPA. Environmental Protection Agency, n.d. Web. 24 June 2016. (https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reducing-and-reusing-basics)

Herbs for Self-Care

Speaker: Dr. Mahalia Freed, NDWritten by: Sheena & Esha Jain

Overview:

The importance of herbs to our health is so significant. Herbs contain many key elements that can be used for curing purposes, providing us with a variety of natural sources that can be used for treatment. Most herbs have multi-purpose uses further having beneficial effects. In order for us to use these herbs we must have knowledge about their effects, as well as modes in which they can be consumed. The following includes some key herbs that are commonly used for self-treatment.

Name Mechanism of Action Health Benefits Mode of Consumption Linden

(Tilia spp.)

- Nervine sedative

- Antispasmodic

- Digestion

- Diaphoretic

- Antioxidants

- Demulcent (relieves inflammation)

- Hypotensive

- Flu: Antipyretic & speeds healing

- Bathe in flower

- Tea

  → combined with peppermint &    

      yarrow when used as antipyretic

Dandelion

(Taraxacum Officinale)

- Dandelion is a bitter

-  There are many   

  bitter receptors

  throughout the

  body for dandelion

  to bind to

- Controls blood sugar

- Regulates appetite

  →  indicates when we are full

-  Digestion

  → ↑ digestive enzyme production

  → ↑ digestive acids

  → ↑ peristalsis

- Resolves bloating

- Leaf: Kidney Tonic

- Liver & Gallbladder tonic

- Root: effective in killing lymphoma

          cells

- Sauteed Greens

- Roasted Root Coffee

- Tea of dried root (simmered)

- Tea of dried leaf (steeped)

Red Raspberry Leaf

(Rubus idaeus)

- Calcium rich

 → therefore helps

      support smooth

      muscles in uterus

      & intestines

     (astringent effects)   

- Uterine Tonic

 →  traditionally used in 2nd & 3rd

   trimester pregnancies

 →  causes shorter & more efficient

   labors

- Helps with diarrhea & constipation

- Contains many flavonoids:

 Nutritive & Antioxidant

- Herbal Vinegar

- Infusion of single herb or in

 combination with nettle

Stinging Nettle

(Urtica Dioica)

- Nutrient Rich: ↑ Iron, Calcium &

                             trace minerals

- Blood Cleanser

- Abundant source of Chlorophyll:

 Detox, source of energy

- Antihistamine

  →  helpful with seasonal allergies

- Kidney Tonic, Diuretic

- Central ingredient in prenatal tea

- Pesto

- Juice/Tea

  → especially when used for seasonal

       allergies

- Blood building infusions

   → used in Iron deficiency patients

   →  Can be combined with Raspberry

Lemon Balm

(Melissa Offcinalis)

- Calming and uplifting to nervous

 system

- Digestion:

   → Helps relieve spasms, gas & pain

   in the digestive tract

- Antiviral

  →  effective against Herpes & some

   types of Influenza

- ↑ HDL cholesterol

- ↓ AST (Liver Enzyme)

- Tea with fresh/Dried Leaf

  →  Antiviral effects in tea form

St John’s Wart - Antiviral

- Wound healing

- Depression

Herbs are available in a variety of forms including, capsular supplements and natural plant form. According to Dr. Freed, herbs in the capsular form are less effective than in the natural plant form due to their inability to preserve the herb. Therefore in order to obtain these optimal benefits one should ingest the herb in its natural state; in the form of a tea, or by direct consumption of the greens itself. When used for medicinal purposes, herb consumption in the form of tinctures is recommended due to its ability to concentrate active constituents in the herb. Tinctures are herbs, extracted as liquids in alcohol or non-alcohol based forms (i.e. apple cider vinegar and vegetable glycerin).

            Overall the abundant availability of herbs, provides us with such easy access to them. Obtaining knowledge about the effects these herbs have to improving our health and mental state can allow us to take full advantage of their beneficial effects.

Sources:

1)  "Herb Lore." Tinctures. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2016. (https://herblore.com/overviews/tinctures)

Chemicals Released into Our Air & Water that can Pose Risks to Our Health & the Health of Our Environment

Speaker: Heather MarshallWritten by: Esha & Sheena Jain

Overview:

Toronto is an ever growing city, with some areas more exposed to carcinogens than others, as high rise buildings are being built near industrial areas. It is evident that many companies are not reporting toxic chemicals, which even in the smallest amounts can be harmful. As a result community member of Toronto have pushed “the rights to know bylaw” in order to gain more information regarding the toxins being used and released into the environment. The Toronto public health map website now discloses the top 25 toxic substances used as they are now required to share it with the public. Of the list of 25 toxic substances, Cadmium, Tetrachloroethylene, Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons are all cancer causing toxins.

Tetrachloroethylene also known as “Perc” is of particular interest as it is used quite a bit. It is important to know that Perc causes respiratory, nervous and reproductive system issues. It adds to air pollution and has a negative effect on aquatic environments, soil and groundwater contamination.  

Perc is used in dry cleaning and many still continue to use it despite the negative impact it has on public health. Dry cleaning is a misnomer as the clothing is actually soaked in the chemical solvent, then dried and pressed with specialized machinery. There is no such thing as “organic washing,”either,  therefore be aware of false advertising of such signs.  

With the assistance of the Toronto Environmental Alliance a scorecard was created to see what other chemical toxins are being used. This has allowed the public to compare the scores with other cleaners to see what they use, allowing them to choose a dry cleaner that they feel fit. Note that wet cleaning does not negatively impact one’s health or the environment. It is better on clothing and not linked to cancer, air or water pollution and there are no lingering chemical odors.

The Toronto Environmental Alliance has been successful and were able to pass a bylaw known as DineSafe or BodySafe, which is posted in the window of approved dry cleaners allowing the public to know it has been tested, scored and is risk free.

For more information regarding Toronto public health maps go to: www.toronto.ca/chemtrac

Discussion questions:

1.       How does Tetrachloroethylene effect the environment (air, aquatics, soil) and what are the outcomes from the toxin exposure?

Air: When dry cleaners use Perc, it is released directly into the air. Perc can be transported long distances in the air as it breaks down slowly.

Perc can move into the air through vapors ending up in homes and apartments above dry cleaning shops.

Aquatics: The dry cleaning industry also produces liquid waste that contains Perc, which may end up at waste treatment facilities. Perc evaporates from water into the air, but some may remain in the water. It is slow to break down in water as well.

Soil: Perc may contaminate the soil when the waste leaks out from the waste treatment facilities. It can evaporate from the soil or end up into the ground water. It also breaks down slowly in the soil.

2.      Are there any precautions that we as a population can take to reduce the amount of chemicals/toxins exposure?

• The amount of exposure from Perc vapor intrusion into homes/apartments above dry cleaning facilities can be minimized by ensuring the area is well ventilated. This can be achieved  by increasing the air exchange rate between indoor and outdoor air.
• If you are concerned that you live near a waste site or near contaminated groundwater or soil, be sure to prevent your children from playing in or ingesting the dirt.
• Be sure to read product labels carefully and store products in outdoor sheds to reduce indoor air exposure.

3.    What medical tests can be done to determine Perc exposure?

Perc can be measured in the breath and its breakdown products can be measured in the blood and urine. Detection does not predict the health effects that may develop from the exposure. Tests need to be done within days after exposure as the breakdown products of Perc leave the body rapidly.

4.       What are the long term effects that Perc will have on the health of those exposed?

Long term exposure may cause neurological effects, including headaches, alteration in mood, memory, attention, reaction time, cognitive functioning or vision changes.

Higher exposure may damage the liver, kidney, immune system, have hematologic effects and impair reproductive development.

Pregnant mothers may face miscarriages, birth defects and slowed growth of fetus in utero after oral and inhalation exposure.

Long periods of exposure may lead to high risk of bladder cancer, multiple myeloma or non-hodgkin’s lymphoma; however, there is limited evidence for these specific cancers.  

Based on evidence, Perc is indeed considered to be carcinogenic by all routes of exposure. According to studies, rats and mice were exposed to Perc for 2 years via inhalation and stomach tube. The results demonstrated a development of  mononuclear cell leukemia in rats and hepatocellular carcinoma in mice.

Sources:

ATSDR - Public Health Statement: Tetrachloroethylene (PERC). Atsdrcdcgov. 2016. Available at:

http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/phs/phs.asp?id=263&tid=48.Accessed June 3, 2016.

Tetrachloroethylene (Perchloroethylene) | Technology Transfer Network Air Toxics Web site | US EPA. www3epagov. 2016. Available at: https://www3.epa.gov/airtoxics/hlthef/tet-ethy.html. Accessed June 3, 2016

Toxins in Our Consumer Products & What To Do About it

Speaker: Muhannad MalasWriters: Esha & Sheena Jain

Overview:

        Toxins are present in a variety of consumer products such as cosmetics, food packaging, household furniture, cleaning products etc. Over 84 000 toxins are used in products throughout North America, however only a small fraction are assessed and reported. Studies have shown that at the time of birth, neonates have already been exposed to approximately 55-121 toxic compounds that are linked to cancer and other health conditions.  

Many of these toxins are classified as Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals, which are known to mimic the effects of hormones. Some examples include:

Bisphenol A (BPA) –  used in: food cans, plastic reusable bottles & cash register receipts

o   BPA mimics estrogen, which can be detrimental to breastfeeding mothers and their children and has been linked to breast cancer.

Flame Retardants – used in: Furniture (i.e. couches, office chairs, mattresses) & nail polish

o   Flame retardants can impact fetal brain development and has been linked to ADHD

Phthalates & Parabens – used in: Nail polish perfume/fragrance, makeup, personal care products & vinyl floors

o   Parabens mimic estrogen making them toxic to the reproductive system.

There are specific stages throughout development, in which one is most susceptible to toxin exposure. This can have a cumulative effect and increase their chances of developing various health conditions in the future. These include:

Prenatal

o   Since fetuses are small with low weight, any amount of chemical exposure can have an effect on them. Although as a general rule effects are independent of a dose to weight ratio. The effect varies based on individual susceptibility and genetic makeup.

After Birth

o   Breastfed Infants are exposed to chemicals present in maternal fat tissue through breastmilk.

Children & Adolescence

o   This group is exposed to chemicals from the products that they use (i.e. Axe spray, cosmetics). Individuals in this age group lack the ability to understand label warnings and how these chemicals can be detrimental to their health.

Adulthood

o   Even exposure to chemicals in adulthood can increase an adult’s chances of developing health conditions.

Toxins not only affect the health of the population but it also impacts our environment as a whole. Toxins such as dry cleaning solvents like siloxane, Perc, or cosmetic products are released into our environment and are polluting Lake Ontario. These toxins have the same effects in aquatic organisms as in humans (i.e. Phthalates and Parabens found in cosmetic products can also affect the reproductive system in aquatic animals, and flame retardants can also have neurologic effects on aquatic organisms.) Once these toxins are released into the environment, they enter the food chain. Fish exposed to toxins in polluted lakes are eaten by birds. By consuming fish these birds have gained toxin exposure and are then consumed by seals. These now exposed seals are highly consumed by the Inuit population in North America causing a low IQ in the Inuit population.

        Overall, the ultimate goal is to prevent individuals from developing these conditions by reducing their exposure to products with harmful toxins. This can be achieved by 2 approaches:

The “Right to Know” Approach

Community “right to know” bylaw – population pushing the right to know about the toxins in their communities. The goal is to mandate manufacturing companies to disclose information regarding the toxic chemicals used in their products. This approach will allow consumers to be aware of the chemicals in their products and allow them decide which products to use, and which to avoid. For example, many families of low socioeconomic status buy canned foods but are unaware of the use of BPA used in food cans, with the rights to know approach, these individuals will gain knowledge about which food products to avoid.

Precautionary Approach

The main focus of this approach is to take some preventive measures when there is evidence regarding products of concern. This is done  in order to avoid negative health effects in advance. The logic behind this approach is that in most cases once some harm is found in a product, chances are more harmful effects will be discovered in the future. Therefore precautionary measures should be taken before toxic substances have detrimental effect to an individual’s health.

Discussion Questions:

1)   What are common consumer product toxins found in pregnant women and how do they affect the mother and/or fetus?

Toxins	Products Toxins are Used in	Maternal/Fetal Effects	Preventative Measures to Avoid Toxin Exposure
Phthalates	Plasticizers and fragrance products found in: - Shower curtains - Shampoos - Soaps	- Reproductive issues - Asthma	- Avoid consumption of processed  foods  Often handed by workers wearing plastic  gloves - Do not heat food in plastic     containers/dishes - Avoid cosmetic and personal care  products with phthalate or have  “fragrances” listed in the ingredient list - Keep offices and homes well ventilated - Limit child’s exposure to vinyl tires,  imitation leather furniture, soft plastic toys
Bisphenol-A (BPA)	- Polycarbonate plastics - Lining of food cans	- Cancer - Early Puberty - Diabetes - Obesity - Reproductive Issues	- Avoid canned foods, instead use products in  glass or cardboard - Consume fresh and frozen fruits & vegetables - Find BPA-free plastic products - Avoid handling receipts
Teflon	- Stain-protection products - Non-stick cookware	- Low birth weight - Obesity - Cancer	- While using Teflon/non-stick cookware, keep   stove temperature low - Use cast iron or stainless steel cooking pans
Mercury	- Appliances - Automotive parts - Electronics, Batteries - Thermometers - Dental amalgam,   - Medications, Skin creams - Vaccines - Jewellery - Light bulbs	- Impairs neurological  development	- Avoid consuming fish high in mercury

2)   Are most toxins in consumer products included on the product’s label/ingredient list?

Toxins present in cleaning products are not mandated by the federal law to be included in the list of ingredients regardless of how harmful it is to one’s health. Some cleaning product manufacturers include a more detailed list of product ingredients on their websites, which are not included on the in store product label. However, the ingredient list found online remains vague and includes unspecific chemical groups as opposed to the individual chemical ingredients found in these products.

The chemicals responsible for creating the products scent is made up of over 3000 chemical products, many of which are toxic. However these chemicals are not all individually included but instead in many cases are simply listed as “fragrances” under the list of ingredients.  

The Cleaning Product Right to Know Act of 2011, has required cleaning product manufacturers to include all ingredients, contaminants and each fragrance-creating chemicals online and on product labels. The federal Toxic Substance Control Act of 1976 is mainly concerned with chemicals newly created, putting less emphasis on toxic ingredients that are already being used in consumer products and cleaning supplies.

Stricter regulations are placed on antibacterial and mold-fighting cleaning products because they contain pesticides. Therefore manufacturers of these products are required to disclose each pesticide the product contains and their amount in percentage on product labels. However the disclosure of other toxic ingredients are not required in these products.  

3)   Are there any correlations between toxin exposure and the development of certain autoimmune diseases?

Toxin	Correlating Autoimmune Disease
Mercury Poisoning	·         Multiple Sclerosis ·         Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Silica, Asbestos, Dioxin, Lead	·         Rheumatoid Arthritis ·         Spondyloarthritis ·         Inflammatory Myositis ·         SLE
Excitotoxin Poisoning (from aspartame in diet sodas)	·         Multiple Sclerosis
Pesticides	·         Rheumatoid Arthritis ·         SLE ·         Systemic Sclerosis

Sources:

"Cleaning Supplies: Secret Ingredients, Hidden Hazards." EWG's Guide to Healthy Cleaning. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 June 2016.(http://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/content/weak_regulation)

"Top 5 Autoimmune Triggers - Part 3: Toxins - Healing Is Freedom."Healing Is Freedom. N.p., 02 June 2015. Web. 03 June 2016. (http://www.healingisfreedom.com/body/top-5-autoimmune-triggers-part-3-toxins/)

"Mercury in Consumer Products." EPA. Environmental Protection Agency, n.d. Web. 03 June 2016. (https://www.epa.gov/mercury/mercury-consumer-products

"Toxic Chemicals, Fertility, and Pregnancy." ConsumerAffairs. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 June 2016. (https://www.consumeraffairs.com/toxic-chemicals-fertility-and-pregnancy)

"Toxic Chemicals to Avoid During Pregnancy." Womens Voices for the Earth. N.p., 24 Apr. 2014. Web. 03 June 2016.(http://www.womensvoices.org/2014/04/24/toxic-chemicals-to-avoid-during-pregnancy/)

How We Can Source & Incorporate Nutrient-Dense Herbs into our Diets to Maximize Health

Speaker: Dr. Cyndi Gilbert, NDWritten by: Esha & Sheena Jain

Overview:

It is a great misconception that weeds that grow in our gardens are “the enemy.” Dr. Cyndi Gilbert a naturopathic doctor states that weeds are herbs, a food, which add flavour to our meals, providing us with minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. Weeds help prevent diseases as they are easily absorbed and aid in supporting our health. Why weeds you may ask, simply put they are accessible, local, free, nutritious and sustainable. The following are just a few brief examples of uses and health benefits of some edible weeds:

Weed	Available Nutrients/Vitamins/Minerals & Effects	Medical Benefits	Disadvantages
Dandelion	- Greens: ↑ in beta-carotene, Vitamin C, Vitamin K &                  Iron - Roots:   ↑ in fiber (inulin) & Iron           - Gentle laxative            - Improves fat digestion & reduces cholesterol    - Leaves: Diuretic effects	Can assist in the management of: - Acne, Eczema - PMS - Constipation, UTI - Anemia - High Blood Pressure
Lamb Quarters	- ↑ in Calcium, Protein, Vitamin A, Vitamin C,   Vitamin K - Laxative effects		- ↑ in Oxalates (increases risk of Kidney stones when raw)
Red Clover	- ↑ in phytoestrogens (isoflavones), Calcium,    Magnesium, Phosphorous & Potassium	Hormone balancing effects - ↓Hot Flashes - Prevents breast  cancer recurrence - Possibly prevents  osteoporosis
Stinging Nettle	- ↑ in Iron & Vitamin C - Helps rehabilitate toxic soils        - Because it can move minerals and nitrogen               in soil - Boosts milk supply in dairy cows - Gives other flowers or plants there scent  (e.g. gives  peppermint, and lavender there smell)	Can be used in management of: - Frostbite - Acne, eczema - Anemia - Hair Loss - Arthritis, Gout   - Hay Fever - UTI - Root: used for  prostate health	- Stings when     touched     (no longer stings   once dry)   - Handle with         gloves
Burdock	- ↑ in fiber (lingnins, Inulin), prebiotics - Metabolic Effects	Can be used in management of: - Diabetes Mellitus  (controls insulin   levels) - Eczema
Garlic Mustard	- Antimicrobial, antibiotics	Can be used for: - Colds/Flu

There are many herbs/herbal supplements available to us as consumers. However unless we are the ones harvesting these herbs on our own, we cannot be sure of the environmental conditions and the quality of soil that these herbs were grown under. Therefore although there are many advantages of consuming herbs, we must take extra precaution when purchasing herbs from an external source. The best way to ensure we are consuming high quality herbs, is to gain access to information about sourcing, soil quality and growing conditions. This will ensure that we benefit from all of the valuable effects that herbs have to offer, under ideal conditions.

Discussion questions:

1.     Does the way in which the herbs are prepared affect the amount of nutrients one is able to extract out of them?

Herbs should be exposed to some heat in order to get rid of any harmful toxins present within it. Weed roots have the ability to pick up toxins from its surrounding environment. Therefore herbs should be slightly sautéed to eradicate any toxins, but should not be overcooked as to cook out all of its beneficial nutrients.

2.     Plant foods contain oxalic acid, why are people afraid to consume raw greens because of it?

Oxalic acid binds with certain nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, iron, sodium and potassium in the body. This forms an oxalate composite in the form of kidney stones. The long-term consumption of foods high in oxalic acid can lead to nutrient deficiencies.

It is important to know which foods contain oxalic acid. Specifically roots and leaves of rhubarb or lambs quarters contain high concentrations of oxalic acid. According to Dr. Gilbert, adding vinegar to these particular roots during preparation, decreases the amount of oxalic acid consumed.

3. Does consuming herbs affect pregnancy and lactation negatively?

Most herbs used in cooking are safe during pregnancy and lactation; however it is important to know that there are some herbs that decrease milk supply. Consuming herbs in large quantities can also be detrimental during pregnancy and should be consumed in moderation. These include:

- Aloe - Fennel - Fenugreek - Kava Kava

- Periwinkle Herb - Oregano - Parsley - Thyme

- Peppermint/Menthol/Spearmint - Sage - Licorice - Rhubarb (root)

4.     If your diet consists heavily of herbs, how might it interact with medications?

Most people are unaware that herbs can negatively interact with medications. The herb can cause increasing or decreasing amounts of the medication in the bloodstream. The herb could prevent the drug from getting into the bloodstream by stimulating an enzyme to degrade the medication and eliminate it from the body. This causes a decreased amount of the medication within the body. Some herbs can aid in inhibiting the enzyme responsible for metabolizing and excreting a drug. This causes increased amounts of the medication in the body. The above situations demonstrate how herbs can either cause a medication to appear ineffective or produce side effects.

Some herbs may produce opposite or similar effects as the medication thus reducing or increasing the drug effects respectively. According to Dr. Gilbert a prime example would be a diabetic patient on insulin, who also consumes large amounts of burdock. Burdock is a root that also aids in controlling insulin. The interaction of both the insulin medication and the burdock root may cause an increase in the insulin-like effects causing the patient to become hypoglycemic, which can be life-threatening.  

Some examples of how herbs can interact with medications are included below:

Herb	Medications/ Drug Classes	Drug Interaction Effects
Echinacea	- Anabolic Steroids - Methotrexate	- Liver Inflammation
Ephedra	- Antidepressants - Antihypertensives	- ↑↑ Blood Pressure & Heart Rate - Death in some individuals
Feverfew	- Anticoagulants	- ↑ Bleeding
Garlic	- Anticoagulants	- ↑Bleeding
Ginger	- Anticoagulants	- ↑ Bleeding
Ginkgo	- Warfarin	- ↑ Bleeding
Ginseng	- Warfarin	- ↓ effectiveness of Warfarin
Kava-Kava	- Anti-epileptics	- ↑ effectiveness of anti-epileptics
	- Anesthetics	- Prolongs effects of anesthetics
	- Alcohol	- Enhances alcoholic effects
St John’s Wort	- Anesthetics	- Prolongs effects of anesthetics
	- Warfarin	- ↓ effectiveness of Warfarin
Valerian	- Anti-epileptics	- ↑ effects of anti-epileptics
	- Anesthetics	- Prolongs effects of anesthetic agents

Sources:

Dharmananda, Subhuti, Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine,. "DRUGS AND NURSING." On Taking Herbs While Breastfeeding. N.p., n.d. (http://www.itmonline.org/arts/breast.htm.) 10 June 2016.

Dharmananda, Subhuti, Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine. "HERBALS AND DRUG

INTERACTIONS." Checking for Possible Herb-Drug Interactions. N.p., n.d. (http://www.itmonline.org/arts/herbdrug2.htm.) 10 June 2016.

Herrington, Diana. "Oxalic Acid Controversy." Real Food For Life. N.p., n.d. (http://realfoodforlife.com/oxalic-acid-controversy/.) 10 June 2016.

"In Defense of Oxalic Acid." In Defense of Oxalic Acid. N.p., n.d. (http://www.dewsworld.com/InDefenseofOxalicAcid.html.) 10 June 2016.