Herbal Supplements

Dietary supplements can help improve or maintain your health, but they can also involve health risks. Just because something is natural, doesn’t mean it’s safe for everyone or safe at all doses. Many supplements and herbal products may interact with your medications or pose risks if you have certain medical problems or are going to have surgery. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking herbal products, supplements, medicinal teas or tinctures.

• Read and follow all instructions on the label. If you have side effects, stop taking the supplement and contact your healthcare provider.
• Do not assume that the term “natural” ensures that it is safe.
• Learn to spot false claims. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Many supplements haven’t been tested in pregnant women, nursing mothers or children. Always consult your health care provider before taking supplements, especially with children, pregnant or nursing mothers.

More information on some of the potentially dangerous herb-drug interactions can be found on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website.

If you have questions, suspect an adverse reaction or medicine mishap, call 1-800-222-1222.