Articles
Herbal supplements: What to know before you buy
Are herbal supplements safe?
How do you know if herbal supplements' claims are true?
Content
Are herbal supplements regulated?
Who shouldn't use herbal supplements?
How do you know what's in herbal supplements?
How do you know if supplement claims are true?
Safety tips for using herbal supplements
Safety tips for using herbal supplements
If you've done your homework and plan to try an herbal supplement, play it safe with these tips:
- Follow instructions. Don't exceed recommended dosages or take for longer than recommended.
- Keep track of what you take. Make a note of what you take — and how much for how long — and how it affects you. Stop taking the supplement if it isn't effective or doesn't meet your goals for taking it.
- Choose your brand wisely. Stick to brands that have been tested by independent sources, such as ConsumerLab.com, U.S. Pharmacopeia and NSF International.
- Check alerts and advisories. The FDA maintains a list of supplements that are under regulatory review or that have been reported to cause adverse effects. Check the FDA website periodically for updates.
