Ackee

Uses

What is ackee used for?

Ackee is found in West Africa, the Carribbean, southern Florida, and Central America. It is commonly used for treating colds, fever, water retention (edema), and epilepsy.

Ackee may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist, herbalist for more information.

How does it work?

There are not enough studies about how this herbal supplement works. Please discuss with your herbalist or doctor for more information.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using ackee?

Consult with your doctor or pharmacist or herbalist, if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because, while you are expecting or feeding a baby, you should only take medicines on the recommendation of a doctor.
• You are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription.
• You have allergy with any substances of ackee or other medications or other herbals.
• You have any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions, such as diabetes, liver disease, or compromised kidney function.
• You have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.

The regulations for an herbal supplement are less strict than the regulations for a drug. More studies are needed to determine its safety. The benefits of taking this herbal supplement must outweigh the risks before use. Consult with your herbalist or doctor for more information.

How safe is ackee?

Pregnancy and breastfeeding:

There isn’t enough information about the safety of using this herbal during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking this medication.

Children:

Safety, efficacy, and dosing have not been systematically studied in children.

Surgery:

Stop taking ackee at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Side effects

What kind of side effects may I have from ackee?

When using ackee, it may cause these side effects, such as:

• Liver damage
• Abdominal pain
• Intermittent diarrhea
• Hypotonia (decrease muscle tone)
• Weakness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stupor
• Hemorrhages (bleeding)
• Confusion
• Headache
• Convulsions
• Tachypnea (rapid breathing)
• Tachycardia (fast heart beat)
• Intense itching

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about side effects, please consult your herbalist or doctor.

Interactions

What interactions may I have with ackee?

This herbal supplement may interact with your current medications or medical conditions. Consult with your herbal healer or doctor before using.

Ackee may lower blood sugar levels. Patients taking drugs for diabetes by mouth or insulin should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare professional.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your herbalist or doctor before using this medication.

What is the usual dose for ackee?

The dose for this herbal supplement may be different for every patient. The dose that you take depends on your age, health, and several other conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe. Please discuss with your herbalist or doctor for your appropriate dosage.

What form does ackee come in?

There is no supplement of this herbal.