A young woman’s recent experience in Turkey is prompting fresh warnings about the potential risks of herbal supplements, even for those in good health. Published in the *European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine*,the case details how a 29-year-old developed atrial fibrillation – an irregular heartbeat linked too increased stroke risk – after taking high doses of ginseng for fatigue [[1]]. This marks the first documented instance of ginseng triggering the condition in an or else healthy adult, highlighting the importance of openness with healthcare providers regarding all supplement use [[2]], [[3]].
A popular herbal supplement, ginseng, has been linked to a previously undocumented heart rhythm problem in a young, healthy woman, raising concerns about the potential risks of even commonly used natural remedies. Cardiologists are emphasizing the importance of discussing all supplements with a healthcare provider, as even products perceived as “natural” can have significant health consequences.
The case, recently published in the European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine, details how a 29-year-old woman with no prior heart conditions developed new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) after using high doses of ginseng. The study, titled “THE PARADOXICAL PRO-ARRHYTHMIC EFFECT OF GINSENG: A CASE OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION IN A HEALTHY ADULT,” marks the first documented instance of ginseng triggering AF in an otherwise healthy individual.
YOUNG WOMAN SEEKED EMERGENCY CARE FOR RAPID HEARTBEAT
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The patient, who was treated at a private hospital in Bandırma, Turkey, presented to the emergency room complaining of severe palpitations that had been ongoing for several days. She reported taking 500 mg capsules of red ginseng twice daily for two months to combat fatigue. An electrocardiogram (EKG) revealed an irregular heartbeat of 123 beats per minute, leading to a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation – a type of irregular heartbeat that can increase the risk of stroke and other complications.
EXTENSIVE TESTING REVEALED NO OTHER CAUSE
Doctors quickly worked to restore the patient’s normal heart rhythm and immediately discontinued her ginseng use. Comprehensive testing, including assessments of thyroid function, electrolyte levels, and structural heart health, yielded normal results. Medical professionals concluded that ginseng was the likely trigger for the arrhythmia.
“PARADOXICAL AND DANGEROUS EFFECT,” SAYS CARDIOLOGIST
Dr. Sabri Onur Çağlar, the cardiologist who treated the patient, noted that ginseng is often considered a heart-healthy supplement, but this case demonstrates the opposite. “This is a paradoxical effect,” he said. “We are seeing that ginseng has a pro-arrhythmic potential, meaning it can cause rhythm disturbances. In every patient who presents with AF, the use of herbal products must be questioned.”
The patient’s full recovery after stopping ginseng use strongly suggests a direct link between the supplement and her heart rhythm problem, according to the medical team.
“HERBAL” DOES NOT EQUAL HARMLESS
The team issued a warning to the public and healthcare providers:
- “Herbal supplements, including ginseng, are not necessarily harmless.”
- “Uncontrolled use can lead to serious rhythm disturbances, even in young and healthy individuals.”
- “Anyone experiencing palpitations, chest tightness, or shortness of breath should inform their doctor about any supplements they are taking.”
This striking case underscores that even products perceived as natural can pose life-threatening risks when used improperly or in excessive amounts. The findings highlight the need for greater awareness of potential interactions and side effects associated with herbal supplements, and the importance of informed decision-making regarding their use.
