Are herbal products safe?

Although people may think of herbal products as being natural, natural does not always mean safe. Many of our strongest poisons and medicines come from natural sources (e.g., cyanide, cocaine).

Herbal products come in a variety of forms, including powders, pills and herbal teas. Many herbal products have not been tested for safety, or for effectiveness.

Herbal products may interact with:

• prescription medicine (including birth control)
• over-the-counter (OTC) medicine
• vitamins and minerals supplements
• food and beverages

Herbal products can also affect blood tests or other laboratory results.

Talk with your health care provider (including your pharmacist) about any herbal products that you are taking. If you have any questions, talk with your health care provider or call Health Link at 811.