Khaberni - Many people turn to herbal tea for health reasons or relaxation, but experts warn that some types of tea may pose a risk when consumed before surgery because of their effects on blood clotting, blood pressure, or their interaction with anesthesia drugs.
Doctors stress the importance of informing the surgeon and the anesthesiologist about all the herbs and herbal drinks consumed by the patient, as it may be requested to stop them weeks before the operation to reduce any potential complications.
According to a health report on "VeryWellHealth", these types of herbal teas are best avoided before surgery:
1. Ginseng tea
Ginseng may affect platelets and blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of bleeding or hypoglycemia during fasting before surgery.
2. Ginger tea
Although it is famous for alleviating nausea, ginger may inhibit the blood clotting process, raising the risk of bleeding before procedures.
3. Ginkgo biloba tea
Used to improve memory and circulation, but it may interact with blood thinners and increase the likelihood of bleeding.
4. Turmeric tea
Has anti-inflammatory properties, but it may affect drug metabolism pathways in the liver, including anesthesia drugs.
5. Kava tea
Known for its calming effect, however, it may interfere with anesthesia medications and sedatives used during surgery.
6. St. John's Wort (Golden Herb) tea
Associated with wide drug interactions, it may affect the effectiveness of anesthesia or anticoagulation drugs.
7. Licorice tea
Prolonged use may raise blood pressure and lower potassium levels, posing a risk during surgery.
8. Ma Huang (Ephedra) tea
Linked to serious complications in the heart and blood pressure, and has been banned in several countries, but it is still found in some herbal mixtures.
9. Mate (Yerba mate) tea
Contains caffeine, and may affect heart rhythm and blood pressure, and sudden cessation may cause withdrawal symptoms.
10. Valerian (Valerian) tea
Used as a sedative and sleeping aid, and may interfere with anesthesia medications, and sudden cessation can cause withdrawal symptoms.
What about non-herbal tea?
Black, green, and white tea contains caffeine and is generally safe before surgery, but it is preferable to gradually reduce the amount to avoid headaches from sudden withdrawal.
In conclusion, while herbal tea is part of a healthy lifestyle for many, some types may carry unexpected risks before surgery. Doctors always advise stopping herbs with questionable effects, and discussing any herbal drinks with the medical team to ensure the safety of the surgical procedure.
