A Look At Dietary Supplements

What Are Herbal Supplements?

Herbal supplements are a type of dietary supplement that contains herbs, either singly or in mixtures. An herb (also called a botanical) is a plant or plant part used for its scent, flavor, and/or therapeutic properties.

What Are The Regulations For Supplements?

Dietary supplements were defined in a law passed by Congress in 1994. A dietary supplement must meet all of the following conditions:

It is a product (other than tobacco) intended to supplement the diet, which contains one or more of the following: vitamins; minerals; herbs or other botanicals; amino acids; or any combination of the above ingredients.

It is intended to be taken in tablet, capsule, powder, softgel, gelcap, or liquid form.

It is not represented for use as a conventional food or as a sole item of a meal or the diet.

It is labeled as being a dietary supplement.

How Can I Find Out If A Supplement Is Safe And Healthy?

The National Institutes For Health has guidelines you can refer to.

Where Can I Report A Complaint About A Supplement?

To report an illness or injury associated with a dietary supplement, please talk with your health care provider and contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration here.

To Learn More About Supplements:

• You can read more about dietary supplements at National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

• Click here for more information from the Office Of Dietary Supplements, part of the National Institutes of Health.

• WebMD has useful tips on herbal supplements.