Is VitalFlush safe?
VitalFlush is made with aged garlic extract and raw honey, both common food ingredients. Most adults tolerate garlic supplements well. As with any supplement, a small number of people can experience side effects. Some people should also speak with a doctor first.
Possible side effects of garlic supplements
- Garlic taste or breath (aged garlic is usually milder than raw garlic)
- Mild stomach upset or heartburn, especially on an empty stomach
- Allergic reaction in people allergic to garlic, onion or honey (rare)
Stop using VitalFlush and seek medical advice if you notice a rash, swelling or any reaction that worries you.
Medication interactions
Garlic may have a mild effect on blood clotting. Talk to your GP or pharmacist before using VitalFlush if you:
- Take blood thinners such as warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, clopidogrel or daily aspirin
- Take blood pressure medication
- Take HIV medication such as saquinavir
- Have surgery or dental work coming up. Stop garlic supplements about 7 days beforehand unless your doctor says otherwise.
Who shouldn't take VitalFlush?
- Children. Honey is unsafe for babies under 12 months.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, unless their doctor approves
- People with bleeding disorders
Should I stop my blood pressure medication?
No. Never stop or change prescribed medication without talking to your doctor. VitalFlush is a supplement and does not replace medication. Keep having regular blood pressure checks with your GP. See healthdirect: High blood pressure.
How much VitalFlush should I take?
Take one daily serve (a few drops) under the tongue. Do not take more than the label directs. See how to take VitalFlush.
Sources
Possible side effects of aged garlic
According to the NIH NCCIH garlic fact sheet, garlic supplements are generally considered safe for most adults. Reported side effects are usually mild and can include breath and body odour, heartburn, upset stomach and, rarely, allergic reactions. Aged garlic extract tends to be milder than raw or powdered garlic because the ageing process reduces the harsh compounds.
Who should check with a doctor first
- People taking blood-thinning medication such as warfarin, or antiplatelet medicines. Garlic may increase bleeding risk.
- Anyone having surgery or dental work soon. Many doctors suggest stopping garlic supplements about 7 days before.
- People on blood pressure or HIV medication, because garlic may interact with some medicines.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- People with a honey, bee product or garlic allergy.
How to reduce the chance of side effects
- Start with the label serve, not more.
- Take it with breakfast if your stomach is sensitive.
- Keep a simple note of how you feel in the first two weeks.
- Stop and talk to your pharmacist if anything feels wrong.
Is honey a concern for blood sugar?
The amount of honey in a daily serve is small, but if you manage diabetes or follow a low-sugar diet, check the label and ask your GP or dietitian.
Common questions
Does VitalFlush have side effects?
Most people have none. Mild garlic taste, breath or stomach upset are the most common reported effects of garlic supplements.
Can I take VitalFlush with blood pressure medication?
Ask your GP or pharmacist first, because garlic may add to the effect of some medicines.
Can I take VitalFlush with warfarin?
Do not start without medical advice. Garlic may increase bleeding risk with blood thinners.
Is VitalFlush safe for kids?
It is designed for adults. Honey products should never be given to babies under 12 months.
When should I stop taking it?
About a week before surgery, or straight away if you notice an allergic reaction.
