Herbal medicine and the transplant patient

There has been a striking increase in Americans' awareness and use of herbal therapies over the past decade. Hundreds of herbal products and homeopathic remedies are available to the consumer, but most of these have not proved to be safe or effective. Moreover, the current lax regulatory environment gives manufactures greater leeway in selling their products. Scientists and researchers are studying how some herbs work, while the complicated puzzle is how herbs interact with prescription drugs. The importance of unrecognized interactions between herbs and immunosuppressants is particularly relevant in the transplant recipient as serious consequences have occurred. Transplant coordinators must become familiar with basic information about herbs to carry out thorough assessments and educate patients about harmful aspects.