Herbal supplements
There are a variety of herbs available as dietary supplements. In the U.S., herbal supplements are regulated as foods, not drugs , which means they don't undergo the same types of rigorous testing and medical trials as, for example, a prescription-based asthma drug/pharmaceutical.
Many herbs and supplements have a long history of use and anectodal health benefits. But just
because a supplement is labeled "natural" does not make it safe or without side effects. The safety
of a botanical depends on many things, such as its chemical makeup, how it works in the body, how
it is prepared, and the dose used. The action of botanicals ranges from mild to powerful (i.e.,
potent).
Many herbal supplements do in fact act on the body in similar ways to drugs. But this only means that, like drugs, herbal supplements can cause problems if not taken correctly, or if taken in combination with other substances that can interact with them (including other supplements, over-the-counter and prescription drugs). Always tell your doctor if you are currently taking any supplements, whether dietary or herbal.
A 1994 law by the U.S. Congress helped define "dietary supplement":
- A product intended to supplement the diet, containing any herbs, botanicals, minerals, vitamins or amino acids.
- Is intended to be taken in capsule, tablet, gelcap/softgel or liquid form.
- Is not represented for use as the sole item of a meal.
- Is labeled as a dietary supplement.
