USF-COM Department of Family Medicine

Patient Education Information on...

HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS

Today, approximately 60 million adults in the U.S. are using herbs to treat illness. Herbs have been used to treat illness in other cultures for thousands of years.
41% of Americans learn about herbal remedies through friends and families. Only 9% learn about herbs from their doctors, 4% from pharmacists.
Herbal products are treated as supplements under the law, which means the manufacturer does not have to prove the product is safe and effective. It is up to the government to prove the supplement is unsafe or ineffective.
Educate yourself about the different types of herbs, their ingredients and their side effects.
If your going to use herbal supplements - Tell your doctor. Certain herbs can have bad interactions with other medications. Just because something is natural does not mean it is safe.
Herbal supplements should not be taken on a long term daily basis (as if they were vitamins).

Saw palmetto	used to ease symptoms of BPH side effects - no know side effects
Echinacea	stimulates the immune system, used to stop colds and flu side effects - no known side effects
St. John’s Wort	used as an antidepressant for mild to moderate depression. use with prescription antidepressants is not recommended side effects - rare, but may see a rash
Ginko	used to increase blood flow to the hands, feet and brain may improve memory and attention side effects - upset stomach, headache, allergic reactions
Valerian	used as a sleep aid may cause additive effects with other central nervous system depressants side effects - generally considered as safe, may cause headache

Books

Magazines

"Herbs for Your Health" published bimonthly by Interweave Press 1-888-844-3727
"HerbalGram" the Journal of the American Botanical Council and the Herb Research Foundation 1-800-373-7105

Web Sites