Who shouldn't use herbal supplements?

Herbal products can pose unexpected risks because many supplements contain active ingredients that have strong effects in the body. For example, taking a combination of herbal supplements or using supplements together with prescription drugs could lead to harmful, even life-threatening results.

It's especially important to talk with your doctor about herbal supplements if:

• You're taking prescription or OTC medications. Some herbs can cause serious side effects when mixed with medications such as aspirin, blood thinners and blood pressure medications.
• You're pregnant or breastfeeding. Medications that may be safe for you as an adult may be harmful to your baby.
• You're having surgery. Many herbal supplements can affect the success of surgery. Some may decrease the effectiveness of anesthesia or cause dangerous complications, such as bleeding.
• You're younger than 18 or older than 65. Few herbal supplements have been tested in children or have established safe doses for children. And older adults may metabolize medications differently.