This results in sleeping effect and unconsciousness in the body. Another note on St. John's Wort, this herb can cause you to be sensitive to light, both sunlight and laser light. Feverfew, ginseng, gingko biloba, ginger, ephedra and garlic may adversely affect bleeding and blood pressure, according to Dr. Jessie Leak, an anesthesiologist with the M.D. How it works : These herbs affect the Heart and Nervous System. Ephedra. Experts recommend that St. John’s Wort be stopped at least 5 days prior to surgical procedures that require anesthesia. The combined effects might be harmful. Stop taking valerian at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery. It may lower down the Heartbeat and Blood Pressure. Anesthesia and other medications used during surgery also affect the central nervous system. In general, the safety and effectiveness of alternative medicines have not been scientifically proven and … increase the effect of anesthesia. These 8 common herbal supplements could be a problem if you need to have surgery: Echinacea. This is a partial list of herbs and herbal treatments with known or suspected adverse effects, either alone or in interaction with other herbs or drugs.Non-inclusion of an herb in this list does not imply that it is free of adverse effects. Effect of Anesthetic herbs on Body : These herbs may result in numbness and no sensation in the Body and Brain. This herb comes from the purple cornflower and is taken for colds, infections, arthritis, and ulcers. It is important to know that these herbal medications have potential interactions other drugs the patient might receive as part of treatments. This herb should be stopped before any procedures using laser technology. The authors write, “Many patients fail to volunteer information regarding herb and alternative medicine pills unless they are specifically asked about herbal … It may reduce anxiety. Add them to your diet whenever possible. Vitamin E — Some people take it to slow the aging process but it can increase bleeding This condition, known as postoperative cognitive dysfunction, affects as many as 40% of patients over age 65 for one to three months, while some experience the condition … In addition, you should eat foods that are rich in sulfur, which helps the liver clear toxins. Anesthetics are used for their ability to cause physical insensitivity. Especially for older patients, general anesthesia increases risk for declines in mental function, including difficulty concentrating and memory loss. If you have liver disease and you have anesthesia while taking echinacea, you could end up with liver damage. There are also herbs and spices that will help you detox and recover from anesthesia—especially the antioxidants turmeric and cinnamon. 10. … The feeling of pain may be blocked, numbed or temporarily taken away. St. John’s Wort — Used to ease anxiety and help with sleep problems, but it may prolong the effects of anesthesia. … Valerian — A sleep aid, it can prolong the effects of some types of anesthesia. Some herbs found in certain dietary supplements have been clinically associated with kidney damage, for example, even in people who have "healthy" kidney function. The finest review of herbal medicines and anesthesia is Chapter 33 in Miller’s Anesthesia, 7th Edition, 2009, authored by Ang-Lee, Yuan, and Moss. Anesthetic Herbs. Good sulfur-rich foods: Garlic, onions and egg yolks.