Cutaneous adverse reactions to herbal medicines

Abstract

The use of medicinal plants is as old as human history. The adoption of plants in the prevention and treatment of diseases has maintained its position in various societies and cultures. Many people believe using medicinal herbs is not detrimental if there is no benefit. In recent years, due to the trend of people and the increase in the consumption of medicinal plants, extensive research is being done in the field of pharmaceuticals and the use of medicinal plants and their properties for the treatment of diseases. Skin diseases are among the most common diseases in the world. Some of the most common skin disease symptoms are skin rashes, itchy skin, prominent bumps, peeling, blisters or sores, discoloration, etc. Since the skin plays a vital role as the first defense barrier of the body, skin diseases can cause dangerous problems for all age groups, from infants to the elderly. Therefore, investigating the possible adverse effects of medicinal plants on the structure and function of the skin is of particular importance. Plants can cause side effects or reduce other pharmaceutical medication effects when improperly used. According to studies, adverse skin responses to herbal medications can be caused by dermal contact or prolonged exposure to medicinal herbs. These reactions are also linked to several risk factors, such as adverse effects, dose, health state, and interactions. This article reviews the findings and data available in articles published between 1953 and October 2022 on the skin side effects of medicinal plants in various databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scientific Information Database.