Web Guide to Healthcare: Herb Information

                                   THE USE OF HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

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Herbal medicine, folk medicine, phytotherapy, herbology, phytomedicine, naturopathic medicine, and botanical medicine - call it what you will. These have played an integral role in the health of man for thousands and thousands of years, maintaining health and treating illness and disease.

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Long ago, when there were no pharmaceutical companies or drug stores, people somehow survived their illnesses. Among other things, people used herbs, various foods, and other natural substances to fight disease and maintain health. It has been suggested that OTZI, the famous prehistoric "ice man," found as a frozen, well-preserved 3000-year-old mummy in the Alps, carried birch polypore mushrooms, which could have been used as antibiotics for inflammation or to try to treat his intestinal parasites.

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It is estimated that more than 50% of our pharmaceuticals today were originally derived from plants and other living organisms. For example, Tamiflu was derived from the herb star anise; guaifenesin (Mucinex) was derived from the guaiac tree; morphine and codeine were derived from the opium poppy; pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) was derived from ephedra; Umckaloabo comes from preparations of elderberry, aspirin comes from willow bark; Lovaza, a newer cholesterol medicine, comes from fish oil, penicillin comes from a mold, valium is a synthetic version of valerian, digitalis (an older heart medicine) originally comes from foxglove, lovastatin comes from a fungus, and warfarin (a blood thinner) originated from sweet clover to name a few. 

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When I talk about supplements here, I am referring to herbs and minerals, vitamins, protein, herb amino acids, and enzymes. It isn't easy to get a reasonable estimate on how many people in the US use them: Information across sources is inconsistent. What we do know is that herbal supplements are a multi-billion-dollar industry in the US, so there must be a vast number of people taking them. So why aren't they tested for efficacy and safety by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration)?

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CHOICE OF HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

​These pages on herbs and supplements present many different options for the support and treatment of various ailments: Over-the-counter medicines, herbal and alternative remedies, and prescription drugs (note: there is often a fine line between over-the-counter herbals and supplements because what were initially herbal formulations are being sold in pharmacies along with the over-the-counter medicines!)

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This site includes "claims" regarding medicinal herbs and supplements based on information provided by the German Commission E, the NIH (PubMed), Drugs.com, WebMD, RxList, Consumer Labs, NIH (National Institute of Health), and a host of other websites (see resources). These sites do not all agree on the actions and efficacy of these herbs; some are only preliminary research and and some even indicate that there is a lack of evidence for use but sometimes, there is a consensus among these organizations as to whether or not a supplement works for a particular ailment or are for support.

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Choosing a Good Herb or Supplement

Efficacy, Standardization, and Purity of Supplements and the FDA​

Until these substances enter the pharmaceutical industry and are assigned to a new drug class or created synthetically, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) does not rigorously test or approve many herbs or supplements for safety, effectiveness, or standardization because they are considered "food," not "medicine." The FDA does not usually do premarket testing, but it does investigate complaints and potential hazards as they arise. The FDA regulates the standardization of commercial vitamins and minerals.

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A big problem arises with the FDA's failure to test herbs and supplements that are on the market: There is no measure of purity, quality, or standardization of concentration that the public can depend on when using these. Some may contain unhealthy foreign substances like insect parts, lead, mercury, arsenic, and other "interesting" ingredients. Additionally, a product may have a substandard concentration of active ingredients. This can be unhealthy (and a waste of money). As an answer, independent testing organizations have sprung up here and there - testing supplements and herbal remedies - to assure some degree of efficacy, quality, and safety. ConsumerLab, mentioned above, has been an excellent reference for me over the last several years. They discuss various supplements, their applications, applicable research, and they test herb and supplemental products for standardization and purity (this is not an advertisement).

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Since many herbal and supplement products have not been the subject of rigorous research studies, there is limited evidence-based information regarding their uses, efficacy, safety, and dosing. A few sites discuss some of these different aspects of herbs (few mention the names of actual products on the market). Since we cannot turn to the FDA, we have to turn to these other organizations for information regarding many herbs and supplements. If you want to know more about an herb or supplement, there are several reputable organizations worth mentioning here-

• ConsumerLab tests many specific herbal and supplement products that are sent to the company for analysis. This organization publishes studies and performs third-party testing on products that are sent to it for analysis. I think this is an excellent site to help a person choose what supplements to use: They include recommendations for different brands according to their tests and take into consideration quality, appropriate concentration of an active ingredient, test it for purity, and factor in the price, among other things. (They charge for a subscription but typically offer you a trial). (This is not an advertisement)

• The American Botanical Council

• German Commission E (also listed on the American Botanical Council's site) provides lists, sometimes dosages, and some studies on the efficacy of certain herbs (not specific products). The German Commission E consists of doctors, scientists, pharmacologists, and toxicologists working with the German Ministry of Health to test and closely monitor non-prescription herbal products for safety and effectiveness before they are offered to the public.

• The NIH's (National Institute of Health) National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health also publishes information about the efficacy of certain herbs but does not publish information about specific products.

• NIH Studies - The NIH publishes many studies about herbs and supplements. Search "NIH" and the specific herb you are looking for.

• Epocrates online publishes information on herbs, rating their efficacy for various ailments. They also list possible doses for certain problems (available for a price on Epocrates+). 

• WebMD discusses uses and efficacy, has some studies; it has some dosing information, information on contraindications and others. 

• RxList also publishes information on uses, often dosage information, contraindications, as other pieces of information.

• Drugs.com has information about uses, often dosage information, contraindications as well as other particulars.

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​​​​Other Things to Consider When Choosing an Herb or Supplement:

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Historical Value - Since many herbal remedies have been used by people for thousands of years to treat various ailments, some say the "proof is in the pudding." That is, the evidence of their efficacy in humans is sometimes drawn from historical records. When citing historical data, the benefits and risks of a dietary supplement can often be inferred. Many European countries accept or reject herbs based on custom, scientific testing, and significant historical accounts of their value. A lot of historical accounts and preliminary studies do show promise. Numerous herbs, plants, and fungi have antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties (among others). The antivirals are especially interesting because, while we have many antibacterial medications (antibiotics) on the market today, we have relatively few antivirals. It is important to note that, over time, studies have shown that while some herbal remedies may work as claimed, others may not. Some are touted as "cure-all" supplements for health—that is, they claim to prevent and treat everything—when, in fact, they do not.

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Some herbs and supplements have demonstrated effectiveness in treating certain medical conditions. There is a place for these remedies in both current and future healthcare. Many herbs available today possess antibacterial and, notably, antiviral properties. Approximately 90 antiviral drugs are currently approved for prescription use in the United States, about one-third of which target HIV. In an era of rising antimicrobial resistance and increasing disease incidence, it would be prudent for organizations to investigate herbal remedies as alternative therapeutic options and share their findings with the public.

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In essence, many supplements sold by companies remain unverified— we often lack reliable information about their purity, consistency, and effectiveness, so it's important to seek out independent third-party reviews. Also, beware of companies that claim to offer “top-rated” products. Some of them conduct in-house testing and then award their own products with accolades, which can be misleading.

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What a shame that, in our country, there is no easily accessible information for people regarding the testing for standardization, efficacy, and safety profiles of supplements. Many other countries have this information readily available.

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How to Use The Herbal/Supplement Information on This Site​

The pages on this site about herbs and supplements contain a lot of information about herbs and supplements for various conditions. Because an herb is listed does not mean it has been tested, and because it is listed, it does not mean it will work. Some of them may be contraindicated and even potentially harmful (especially if not used correctly).

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Suppose you are interested in one of these herbs for treating a specific condition. As mentioned above - and I cannot stress this enough - please read more information about it. Explore reputable reviews and research located on the sites mentioned above. Before taking them, please pay particular attention to:

• Exact Names - Most pages here, about herbs and supplements, mention Latin names for the substance (some have many other names not currently included here). If you choose to use a supplement, be sure you match the correct Latin name of the herb listed with the product you choose to use. For example, "basil" is not the same as "holy basil". Look for the area in which they were grown and the part of the plant from which they are made. Those things can make a difference.

• Dosages - Because many of these are not well-studied, dosages are sometimes not readily available. For this reason, the prepackaged forms, the teas, and the oils are the easiest to use because they come with predetermined dosages.

      Otherwise, check the sources above.

• Check the Preparation and Route - Pills, capsules, teas, elixirs, powders, fresh or dried plants, creams, gels, and lotions (many herbs have an essential oil equivalent) may all be used differently.

• Routes

• Side effects

• Contraindications

• Potential interactions with your other medications (including supplements). 

• The Part of the Plant (root, stem, flower) from which that herb or supplement is made. The amount of the active ingredient can vary depending on the particular plant, the route, and the part of the plant used

• The Region Where It was Grown (often not available) - The amount of the active ingredient can vary depending on where the plant was grown

• The amount of active ingredient in a particular brand (not usually available on packaging) - Can be found at the ConsumerLab Website (paid subscription with trial) (this is not an advertisement). Evaluating the amount of an active ingredient in a raw herb or plant product is difficult for the layman. , the region where it was grown, the product maker, and the condition being treated. 

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Recommended Products

Look for third-party testing 

You deserve health products that are safe, transparent, and effective. That means no toxic additives like lead, cadmium, or contaminants such as insect fragments—and no misleading claims about herbal potency. Finding trustworthy supplements can be challenging, as some companies once considered reputable may turn out to have substandard or adulterated products when independently tested.

Web Guide to Healthcare has conducted research to identify reputable, third-party tested supplement brands. These brands have been evaluated for the accuracy of active ingredient labeling, purity, and potential contamination—including heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, and mercury, among other factors. Many of the herb and supplement pages include a “Recommended Products” section, which lists these vetted brands along with direct links.

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• ConsumerLabs: This organization primarily tests products purchased independently, but also offers testing services to manufacturers for a fee. Their evaluations focus on label accuracy, purity, and potential contaminants, such as heavy metals and microbes. While ConsumerLab is a private company, its testing methods are considered rigorous and meet industry standards.

• USP-NF Labeling - This may help you decide on a brand, though only indirectly. If you're evaluating a specific product, look for formal designations on the label: USP, NF, or USP-NF. These refer to the United States Pharmacopeia and the National Formulary, which set quality standards for drugs and supplements. Although they may sound like a government agency, USP is a private nonprofit organization that collaborates with the FDA. Most herbs and supplements do not carry these designations because they have not undergone USP testing. However, if a product does display the USP Verified Mark, it means it has passed tests for contaminants (like heavy metals and microbes), label accuracy, ingredient identity, and manufacturing quality audits.

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Web Guide to Healthcare does not currently operate its own store, but we provide convenient links to trusted sources for herbs, supplements, and vitamins. These include Amazon, which we use because:

1. It offers a simple and reliable way to link directly to products

2. You can read personal reviews from other users

3. Delivery is typically fast and dependable

4. Purchases made through these links provide modest financial support for our website and its mission

You may also see links to affiliate partners such as Life Extension, when relevant, and the Fullscript dropship ordering platform—both of which also contribute a small amount of financial support to help sustain Web Guide to Healthcare.

We hope these resources help you discover high-quality herbal remedies and supplements that meet your needs.

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Please note: We understand that some people are skeptical of Amazon and the types of dietary supplements sold there. However, as of April 2, 2024, Amazon has implemented a new policy requiring that all dietary supplements, including herbal products, be verified through a third-party Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) organization.

To comply with this policy, sellers must provide the following documentation:

• A Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificate from an accredited body (such as USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab)

• A Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory, verifying ingredient identity, purity, and label accuracy

If you choose to order supplements from Amazon, we recommend checking that the product is sold directly by the manufacturer. Look for listings that say something like “Visit the GNC Store” or clearly reference the brand’s official storefront. This helps ensure you're purchasing from a reputable source

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Important Additional Information

​​While the action of most herbs and supplements is not guaranteed (it is a rare day when a company guarantees any prescribed medicine!), a person might find one or two worth trying when all else fails, especially if other medications do not work optimally, if they are too expensive, or if that person does not like pharmaceutical products. 

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If you are trying a new herb, it is good to start at the low end of the recommended dosage and increase if needed, but do not exceed the recommended dosage. While plants may seem innocuous because they are "just plants," they can be harmful and toxic. 

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If you try an herbal remedy to treat a chronic illness, it is extremely important that you discuss it with your healthcare provider. For example, suppose you have a serious chronic or potentially life-threatening condition like cancer,  hypertension, diabetes, COPD, very high cholesterol or triglycerides, infectious diseases (HIV, STD/STIs, Tuberculosis), or immune disease. In that case, you need to discuss the use of particular herbs and/or supplements with your healthcare provider. You just do not want to be taking the wrong path to treat your illness.

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My primary care provider is a good example of supplemental use in disease. He is well-read and up-to-date on medicine, herbs, and supplements. He prescribes conventional medicine and supplemental remedies, which are fantastic and practical. Some of these may not replace your medication but might work in tandem with it to optimize its effects (for example, omega-3 oil and a statin for cholesterol).

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​​​Again, refrain from jumping into taking any of these herbs and supplements. Do your research, choose a good brand,  follow instructions, check for contraindications if you are already taking medicine, check for medication interactions,and consider talking to a healthcare provider before taking something.

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If you are planning to have surgery, be sure to discuss any herbal or supplements you are taking with your surgeon. Some herbs can cause excessive bleeding and are contraindicated in surgery. 

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If you have significant plant allergies—especially to ragweed, daisies, or related species—be sure to check for potential contraindications before using any herbal remedy or supplement. Many herbs belong to the same plant families as common allergens and may trigger similar reactions.

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If you want to use any of these herbal remedies for colds, sore throats, wellness support, or whatever else you have in mind, they can be hard to come by at the last minute. For a rainy day, you may want to keep some teas, oils, and other herbs on hand. 

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Supplements aren’t always quick fixes—some take several weeks to kick in. Be patient and check the product details, which often explain how long it might take to feel results.

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Again, THIS IS NOT A SITE TO BE USED BY PREGNANT OR NURSING PEOPLE OF FOR THOSE UNDER 12 YEARS. 

In pregnancy, you absolutely need to check with your ob-gyn if you plan to or are taking herbs and/or supplements. Some of these can cause birth defects and miscarriage.

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Note: 

Because the FDA does not regulate supplements in the same way it regulates pharmaceutical drugs, it requires that sellers—and writers—refer to them using terms like “dietary supplements,” “remedies,” or “support” for specific health concerns. The FDA prohibits making medicinal claims about supplements, meaning they cannot be described as “treatments” or “medicines.” For this reason, when writing about herbs, this author avoids referring to them as medicines or treatments, regardless of how effective they may appear. You may notice a deliberate choice of language throughout the written information on herbs and supplements to remain compliant with these guidelines.

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​​​​Any questions, comments, suggestions, recommended additions, or corrections will be very welcome. I will review and add, subtract, and amend information as needed. Greatly appreciated!​​​