Herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years and have seen a surge in popularity due to social media. Researchers at the University of Michigan have found that an estimated 15.6 million U.S. adults have taken herbal supplements in the last 30 days that may be damaging to their liver. Among the potentially harmful supplements studied are ashwagandha, green tea extract, turmeric, or curcumin. Despite the perception that herbal supplements are safe due to being natural, they do not require FDA approval before going to market and can have side effects or interact with medications.
The University of Michigan study analyzed data from over 9,500 U.S. adults and found that about 5% of participants had taken one of the six potentially hepatotoxic botanicals in the past 30 days. This percentage translates to approximately 15.6 million adults in the U.S. population. The use of potentially harmful botanicals is similar to the use of prescription drugs such as NSAIDs and simvastatin, which are also known to be potentially hepatotoxic. The study aims to raise awareness among patients and providers about the risks associated with these products and the lack of regulation in the dietary supplement industry.
The study’s lead author, Alisa Likhitsup, MD, MPH, explained that potentially hepatotoxic botanical products contain plant-based ingredients that have been linked to liver damage. The liver injury can result from the metabolism of these products in the liver after consumption. The rise in liver injuries due to botanical products has been documented, highlighting the need for further research and regulation in this area. Rosario Ligresti, MD, FASGE, emphasized the lack of oversight in the manufacturing and testing of these supplements, leading to potential health risks for consumers, especially concerning liver function.
Monique Richard, MS, RDN, LDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist, expressed concerns about the misleading information surrounding herbal supplements and the lack of FDA regulation and approval process for these products. She advised readers to consult their healthcare team before taking any herbal supplements and consider a food-first approach by incorporating active ingredients like turmeric and green tea into their diet instead. Richard cautioned against relying on supplements as a quick fix and stressed the importance of working with trusted professionals to understand the potential risks and benefits of herbal products.
The study highlights the need for increased awareness about the potential risks of herbal supplements and the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before incorporating them into one’s routine. The lack of regulation and oversight in the dietary supplement industry raises concerns about the safety and efficacy of these products. As the popularity of herbal supplements continues to grow, it is essential for consumers to be informed about the potential risks and benefits associated with these products to make informed decisions about their health.
