CAROL SARAO
Livestrong.com
Undergoing anesthesia and surgery is stressful, and the recovery period–during which your body needs to fight off infection while making new tissue and blood vessels–is demanding as well. Michael T. Murray, N.D., naturopath and co-author of “Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine,” says natural medicines can promote healing, but notes that you must tell your doctor about any vitamin supplements or herbal products you are using. Some may increase risk of bleeding, and should be discontinued before you have surgery.