Ginseng, Ginkgo and Garlic

Ginseng (Asian): It is an alternative medicine promoted as an adaptogen (a drug which increases body's resistance to stress). It is also used as an agent for lowering blood glucose, treating erectile dysfunction, hepatitis C and menopausal symptoms. Important side effects are insomnia, hypoglycemia, high blood pressure, headaches, epistaxis, menstrual irregularitites and mastalgia

Ginkgo biloba: It is another herbal medicine commonly used as a memory and concentration enhancer. Some trials have proved its efficacy in Alzheimers disease. It is also used in intermittent claudication and as an anti-vertigo agent and for treatment of vitiligo. Important side effects include increased bleeding risk, GI distress and allergies.

Garlic: Most commonly used as a dietary supplement to prevent high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, heart diseases and certain types of cancer like stomach and colon carcinomas. Common side effects are halitosis, GI symptoms and increased risk of bleeding. It has been found to reduce the efficacy of saquinavir (protease inhibitor used against HIV).