People use herbal supplements because they want to feel better, stay healthier or improve their quality of life. Some get the hoped-for benefit. But for others, a supplement that they expected to be helpful turns out to be harmful instead.
“In fact, there is scant science on the safety of a number of herbal products,” says Roman Matlaga, DO, LVPG Internal Medicine–Steamtown. Unlike medications, supplements do not need FDA approval to be sold. Yet some can have strong effects on the body. At times, they may cause serious symptoms or dangerous reactions.