Garlic can counteract chemotherapy treatment

A new report has suggested that acai berry, cumin, herbal tea, turmeric and long-term use of garlic – all herbal supplements commonly believed to be beneficial to your health – may negatively impact chemotherapy treatment.Researchers from Northwestern Memorial hospital said that there is growing evidence that these popular supplements may intensify or weaken the effect of chemotherapy drugs and in some cases, may cause a toxic, even lethal reaction.Herbal supplements, defined as plant or plant parts used for therapeutic purposes, can interact with chemotherapy drugs through different mechanisms. Some herbs can interfere with the metabolism of the drugs, making them less effective while other herbs such as long-term use of garlic may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.While culinary herbs used in small quantities for flavouring are generally safe, consuming large amounts for prolonged periods of time may have a negative effect on the body when going through chemotherapy.