Should I disclose my use of herbal supplements to my doctor before surgery?

Should I disclose my use of herbal supplements to my doctor before surgery?

Samuel Seelig (Anesthesiologist, Los Angeles, California) gives expert video advice on: Are there any herbal supplements that can prolong the effects of anesthesia?; Are there any herbs used for natural anesthesia? and more...

It is very important to disclose the use of any medication that you are taking prior to surgery, including herbs and mineral and vitamin supplements. These medications can have significant impacts on the anaesthetic delivered to you by your anaesthesiologist. As you know, herbs and supplements are not FDA regulated and they do not come with package inserts telling you the side effects of these herbs. Many of them will interact with the anaesthetic agents and it is important that you tell your anaesthesiologist.