Herbs and Supplements Guide
It wasn’t long ago that most people had never heard of St. John’s wort or echinacea. But times have changed. Now, these and many other herbal products and supplements are widely available on drugstore and supermarket shelves. Easy access to herbal products and other supplements has given people choices they never had before.
But choice is a double-edged sword. This access has raised important questions about safety, purity, and efficacy. How do you know whether your ginkgo pills actually contain the amount stated on the label? Can you be sure that the product is not contaminated with other ingredients? And how do you know if a supplement will work? Will ginkgo really improve your memory, or black cohosh stop your hot flashes? Do you have to try it to find out? Or is there another way to know before you spend your money and swallow the pills?
This Special Health Report answers questions such as these, based on the best available scientific evidence. While many magazines, Web sites, and product pamphlets contain information about herbs and other supplements, most do not rely on carefully weighed scientific data to back up their claims. That’s where an organization of medical experts called Natural Standard Research Collaboration comes in. This report is a collaboration between Harvard Medical School and Natural Standard, an international research group based in Cambridge, Mass., that works to provide up-to-date and scientifically accurate information about complementary and alternative therapies.
According to experts at Natural Standard, there is good news for people who want to know more about herbs and other supplements. Scientific study of the safety and effectiveness of these compounds is increasing. But most herbs and supplements have not yet been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs or supplements, drugs, or foods. Over the coming years, researchers hope to gain a deeper understanding of these substances and to determine how best to use them in health care.
The bad news is that with increasing scientific scrutiny, problems with herbs and other supplements are coming to light. The products do not always contain what their labels claim. They may not be effective in treating the conditions they are advertised or used for. And they may have dangerous side effects or interactions with other drugs. Remember, the word “natural” does not automatically mean “safe.” Even a product that has a positive action in your body may also cause a negative reaction or side effect.
Sales of herbal supplements surged in the 1990s but have tapered off. Still, their use remains widespread, and the importance of accurate information continues to be paramount. If you are considering buying an herbal remedy or supplement, consult the following pages to learn as much as you can before you buy.