Herbal Supplements: What You Need to Know
Over 15 Million Americans Take These 6 Supplements Even Though They May Cause Liver Damage
A new study from the University of Michigan estimates that 156 million American adults regularly take herbal supplements. However, some of these supplements may be harmful to your liver. Researchers focused on five botanicals present in popular supplements and found that they can cause liver damage, even in people who take them in recommended doses.
The Six Supplements
The six supplements that the researchers studied are:
- Green tea extract
- Ephedra
- Kava
- Black cohosh
- Pennyroyal
- Comfrey
The Risks
The researchers found that these supplements can cause a range of liver problems, including:
- Inflammation
- Fibrosis
- Cirrhosis
- Liver failure
In some cases, liver damage from herbal supplements can be fatal.
What You Can Do
If you are taking any herbal supplements, it is important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine if the supplements are safe for you and can monitor your liver function.
You can also protect your liver by:
- Avoiding supplements that contain the six botanicals listed above
- Taking supplements in recommended doses
- Not taking multiple supplements at the same time
- Talking to your doctor before taking any supplements
By following these tips, you can help protect your liver from damage.
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