Honey eye drops have recently gained popularity and have been touted to treat a variety of eye conditions, such as floaters, inflammation, cataracts, and glaucoma. Application of honey eye drops can not only be painful, but may cause damage to the eye.
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While colloidal silver has been promoted as an alternative or folk remedy, there is no evidence that it is effective. It can cause significant toxicity, particularly with long term use.
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Zinc is a natural mineral found in food. It has recently gained popularity as an immune supplement for COVID-19 but has also been explored as a preventative or therapeutic option for acne and colds. Zinc is generally safe and can typically be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding, but it can be toxic in high amounts. In addition, zinc can interact with some medications.
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Tea tree oil has been used as a "natural" remedy for a long time, especially for skin afflictions. There is very little scientific evidence that tea tree oil is effective for most skin conditions. It is poisonous if swallowed, so it should not be used in or around the mouth.
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St. John's wort has been used for centuries and is generally regarded as safe when taken alone and in recommended doses. However, it is well known to have several drug interactions that can result in serious adverse effects or other problems with medications you might already be taking. Consult your physician and pharmacist before starting herbal products or dietary supplements.
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Melioidosis is a serious infection caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei. Humans can be exposed to the bacteria through contact with contaminated water or soil in tropical countries. In 2021, an outbreak of melioidosis occurred in the US due to contaminated aromatherapy spray.
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The “internal shower” drink popularized by TikTok contains chia seeds, lemon juice, and water, and is reported to help bowel function. Although the nutritional benefits of chia are well-recognized, adverse health effects may occur after chia seed consumption.
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Many people believe homeopathic remedies are safe because they are natural and contain a small amount of active ingredient. However, homeopathic products are not uniformly regulated, and homeopathy is not a standardized medical practice. Inconsistencies in final product formulations and practitioner certifications can lead to dangerous consequences.
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Most homeopathic medications are not poisonous IF they are diluted correctly and don't contain alcohol. Some homeopathic products have caused toxicity, adverse reactions, and allergic reactions. Others don't contain any active ingredients and may not be appropriate treatment for a condition. FDA does not evaluate homeopathic products for efficacy and safety.
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Hawthorn has long been used in Chinese and Western medicine to treat various illnesses. The most studied use of hawthorn is for congestive heart failure (CHF). Its effectiveness for CHF and other conditions is limited, but so is its toxicity. However, it is always best to consult with your primary care provider and pharmacist before starting any herbal regimen to avoid any potential interactions with prescription or over-the-counter medications.
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