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What are herbal supplements? -

Herbal supplements are those with active ingredients made from parts of plants, such as the leaves, roots, or flowers.

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The history of herbal supplements -

Archaeologists believe that the use of medicinal plants dates back to the Paleolithic age, approximately 60,000 years ago.

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Traditional Chinese medicine -

China has one of the oldest medical systems, with its use of acupuncture and herbal remedies dating back at least 2,200 years.

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Herbal supplements and the Food and Drug Administration -

In the United States, vitamins, minerals, herbs, and dietary supplements are not approved by the FDA, so there is no guarantee that they are standardized in terms of potency, quality, or consistency.

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Research -

The University of Michigan reports that an estimated 15.6 million US adults have taken at least one potentially hepatotoxic (liver-damaging) herbal supplement in the last 30 days.

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What is hepatotoxicity? -

Hepatotoxicity is defined as injury to the liver or impairment of the liver function caused by exposure to drugs, food additives, alcohol, and some medicinal plants. Now, let's look at potentially hepatotoxic herbal supplements.

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Ashwagandha - Ashwagandha is a herb native to Asia and Africa. It's believed to help the body manage stress and is used in various forms, like capsules, powders, or teas.

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Black cohosh -

Black cohosh, native to North America, is commonly used for menopause symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats.

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Garcinia cambogia -

The rind of garcinia cambogia contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which has been studied for its effect on appetite. Garcinia cambogia supplements with HCA are said to support weight loss.

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Green tea extract -

Green tea extract is a concentrated form of green tea. It is rich in antioxidants believed to help with various health issues, including weight loss, heart health, and improving brain function.

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Red yeast rice -

Red yeast rice is a traditional Chinese medicine believed to lower cholesterol levels, blood glucose levels, and blood pressure.

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Turmeric or curcumin -

Turmeric was traditionally used in India for skin disorders, joint health, and to support the digestive system. Today, it is promoted as a dietary supplement for conditions like arthritis, allergies, respiratory infections, and digestive disorders.

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Berberine -

Berberine recently went viral on TikTok as a weight loss wonder supplement, heralded as "nature's Ozempic." However, reports suggest that berberine might cause liver toxicity in some cases, particularly when taken in high doses or over extended periods.

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Potential contributors to liver damage -

Botanical products that may be hepatotoxic contain plant-based ingredients linked to possible liver damage.

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How do the supplements cause liver damage? -

Scientists aren't certain why these supplements cause liver damage, but they believe it is likely due to liver metabolism after the products are ingested.

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Patients with liver damage -

Practicing hepatologists have reported patients who have suffered liver injury from taking dietary supplements. Some required emergency liver transplants.

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Jaundice -

If you have a problem with your liver, you may notice a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. This is called jaundice.

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Weight loss -

A loss of appetite and weight loss may also indicate hepatotoxicity if you have been taking potentially hepatotoxic herbal supplements.

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Stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting -

Symptoms of hepatotoxicity can also include stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.

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The scale of potentially hepatotoxic botanical use -

Experts estimate potentially hepatotoxic botanical use (in the form of herbal supplements) is similar to the estimated number of people prescribed potentially hepatotoxic drugs such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

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Hopes from the University of Michigan -

The University of Michigan hopes their study increases awareness among patients and providers about the potentially toxic ingredients being ingested on a regular basis.

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What to consider before using herbal supplements -

Across social media, from influencers to marketing campaigns, there are products touted to 'cure' or 'enhance' various aspects of health and well-being, often without sufficient scientific evidence to support these claims.

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Speak to a healthcare provider -

If you are considering taking a herbal supplement, speak to your healthcare provider first to understand which supplements are best suited to your condition or goals.

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Consider a "food-first" approach -

Before implementing supplements into your diet, try to consume a variety of foods that assist in achieving good health and performance.

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Be wary of supplementing vitamins, too -

Some vitamins or minerals can also cause health problems when taken in high amounts. A high calcium intake has been linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer.

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A waste of money, and an expensive pee -

Multiple studies have found that taking extra vitamins don't improve overall health in otherwise healthy people, and there is no research to suggest a certain herb cures or treats a health problem. Plus, since the body can only absorb a limited amount of vitamins, the excess gets excreted in urine.

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Vitamin D -

Approximately 42% of people are vitamin D deficient, so this is a vitamin you may want to consider supplementing. It's best, however, to consult your healthcare provider first.

Sources: (Medical News Today) (Healthline) (Harvard Health)

See also: Safe or toxic? Demystifying chemical exposure

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