An interesting observation regarding herbal supplements

Herbal supplements are once again facing increased scrutiny. Millions of tax payer dollars have been spent recently to see if they are safe and/or effective. The government is also interested in learning how they interact with other supplements or medications.

For example:

Studies funded by the federal grants have so far shown that chamomile capsules may help reduce anxiety compared to a placebo and that an extract from the milk thistle plant can interfere with the life cycle of the hepatitis C virus. The study also noted that milk thistle can cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

Compare this to one of most popular medications, the sleeping aid Ambien.

Ambien may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• drowsiness

• weakness

• headache

• dizziness

• 'drugged feeling'

• unsteady walking

• difficulty keeping balance

• constipation

• diarrhea

• gas

• heartburn

• stomach pain or tenderness

• changes in appetite

• uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body

• burning or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs

• unusual dreams

• dry mouth or throat

• ringing, pain, or itching in the ears

• eye redness

• muscle aches or cramps

• joint, back, or neck pain

• heavy menstrual bleeding

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• rash

• hives

• itching

• swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat

• feeling that the throat is closing

• difficulty breathing or swallowing

• hoarseness

• shortness of breath

• nausea

• vomiting

• pounding heartbeat

• chest pain

• blurred vision or other vision problems

A couple of side notes, the herbal supplement has increased 17% in the last year and is a $5 billion a year industry. Also, an herbal PDR (physician desk reference) is available and has been for years. It contains detailed information on herbal pharmacology and interaction.