Herbs & Supplements

Amorphophallus konjac Scientific Name: Glucomannan Other Names: Devil's Tongue, Elephant-foot Yam, Konjac, Konjac Mannan, Konnyaku, Snake Plant When should I be careful taking it? Precautions Although glucomannan has been studied in children as young as 5 years old, very little information is available on how glucomannan might affect a developing fetus, an infant, or a small child. Therefore, its use is not recommended during pregnancy, while breast-feeding, or before the age of 5. Individuals being treated for diabetes should avoid using large amounts of glucomannan unless such use is supervised by a doctor or other healthcare professional. Because glucomannan may lower blood sugar levels, taking it may potentially result in hypoglycemia (blood sugar that is too low). Symptoms of low blood sugar include shakiness, sweating, confusion, distorted speech, and loss of muscle control. If not corrected, low blood sugar can lead to unconsciousness and even death. << 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.