Herbs and nutritional supplements provide the essential nutrients that regular meals normally cannot provide. They are especially popular among working people and students, who seldom have time to prepare healthy, home-cooked meals. Herbal supplements have several advantages over synthetic ones, the first of which are safety and efficiency. The body absorbs natural herbs and nutritional supplements better than chemicals, providing more immediate results. Side effects are also less likely because the herbs are easily broken down.
However, choosing the right herbal supplements can be difficult, especially since health products are not strictly regulated. Here are some tips for buying the right herbs and nutritional supplements.
1. Choose the right form.
Herbal supplements come in tablets, gel capsules, syrups, and drinkables such as tea and juice. Solid supplements are mostly designed for those who do not like the taste of herbs. However, liquid supplements are more efficient, since the body does not have to break them down to absorb the nutrients. Alcohol extracts usually work best. Tablets can be particularly difficult to absorb because they usually have strong binding ingredients.
2. Look for organic herbs.
Organic herbs (sometimes called wild herbs) are grown naturally and are less likely to contain pesticides. While 100% natural herbs and nutritional supplements can be hard to find, organic products generally have the lowest chemical content. However, some manufacturers may falsely label their products organic. To stay safe, look for organic supplements made or tested in California, the only state that imposes quality standards on organics.
3. Buy from trusted dealers
As much as possible, buy your herbs and nutritional supplements from health food stores or purchase directly from your doctor. Many doctors carry professional health products that are well-trusted in the medical community. If you buy from a grocery or drugstore, make sure they have a return policy and have your doctor recommend a brand and dosage for you.
4. Some herbs to avoid
Certain herbs found in health supplements have been linked to liver problems. High doses of chaparral can cause severe hepatitis, particularly in older patients. Other herbs known to cause liver problems include comfrey, germander, Gordolobo yerba tea, margosa oil, mate tea, mistletoe, pennyroyal, and skullcap.
TIP Dietary supplements are not strictly regulated in the US, and only one out of five consumers have bought products that live up to their labels. To stay safe, look for herbs and nutritional supplements that are GMP-compliant. This ensures that the product does not contain any additives such as sugar, starch, silica, or artificial flavors and colors.
Tags: health food stores, natural herbs, organic herbs, organic supplements, professional health products