The recommendations advise discontinuing: Ephedra and kava -- at least 24 hours before surgery;        Ginkgo -- at least 36 hours before surgery;      St. John's wort -- at least five days before surgery;      Garlic and ginseng -- at least seven days before surgery;        Echinacea -- as far in advance as possible;        Valerian -- taper dose in the weeks before surgery or continue to use until surgery under a doctor's advice only 11/04 Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.