Assessing Cardiac Risk: A Comparative Review of Herbal and Allopathy Medicines

Abstract

The study examines the cardiac risks associated with certain herbal medicines compared to conventional allopathy drugs. Herbal remedies such as Citrus aurantium, Ephedra sinica, Aristolochia fangchi, Gly- cyrrhiza glabra, Corynanthe yohimbe, and Aconitum spp. are reviewed for their potential to cause adverse cardiac effects, including arrhythmias, hypertension, and cardiomyopathy. These risks are compared to allopathic drugs like digoxin, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide, which are known for their cardiotoxic profiles. Citrus aurantium and Ephedra sinica are noted for their stimulant properties that can lead to elevated blood pressure and increased heart rate, potentially resulting in cardiac arrhythmias. Aristolochia fangchi poses risks of nephrotoxicity and cardiotoxicity due to aristolochic acids. Glycyrrhiza glabra can cause hypokalemia, leading to arrhythmias, especially when used in high doses or for prolonged periods. Corynanthe yohimbe contains yohimbine, which may increase blood pressure and heart rate, heightening the risk of cardiovascular events. Aconitum spp., known for its potent alkaloids, can cause severe cardiac arrhythmias and hypotension. The study highlights the importance of awareness among healthcare providers and patients regarding the potential cardiac risks of both herbal and allopathic medications. It emphasizes the need for careful consideration of the patient’s cardiovascular status when prescribing or consuming these substances, as well as the necessity of rigorous clinical trials and pharmacovigilance to better understand and mitigate these risks.

Keywords

• cardiotoxicity
• complementary medicine
• herbal medicine
• muscle damage