What term describes reducing toxicity of one herb by another in a combo?

• A. Synergy
• B. Counteraction
• C. Antagonism
• D. Neutralization

Answer: (B)

Reducing toxicity of one herb by another in a formula is called counteraction. This approach is used when a herb has potential toxic effects or strong properties, and another herb is added to mitigate those dangers so the combination can be used more safely. A classic example is pairing a potent, toxic herb like aconite with licorice to lessen its toxicity while still delivering therapeutic benefits. This pattern is distinct from synergy, which would emphasize boosting overall effect; from antagonism, which would dampen an herb’s action; and from neutralization, which refers to detoxifying a toxin rather than specifically mitigating another herb’s toxicity in a combo.