Herbs & Supplements

Astragalus gummifera Scientific Name: Tragacanth Other Names: Goat's Thorn, Green Dragon, Hog Gum When should I be careful taking it? Precautions If tragacanth is taken by mouth, it should be taken with at least 8 ounces of water or other liquid. If it is not completely wet, tragacanth may possibly form a large clump of dry powder surrounded by a thin slick layer where the powder comes into contact with fluid. Potentially, this large mass of material could stick in the throat or intestines causing a blockage. Such obstructions could be serious or even life threatening. While the amounts of tragacanth used in foods are probably safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, too little is known about how larger doses of tragacanth might affect a developing fetus or an infant, Therefore, the use of tragacanth as a medication is not recommended during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. << Back What side effects should I watch for? >>

Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.

In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.

This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.