Despite their healthy claims and nutritional value, not all vitamin/herbal supplements are for everyone. For those consumers who have been entertaining the thought of adding a new vitamin supplement to their diets, there are a few considerations to make before any purchase.

Medical History

Depending on one’s current health and medical history, certain herbal supplements may interact. Certain active ingredients may affect how the body’s functions. Just as prescribed medications and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines have effects on specific medical conditions and healthy history, supplements come with the same.

Information labeled on herbal supplements can be downright ambiguous and potentially risky for certain individuals. As a result, it is always best to check with a doctor before adding a new vitamin supplement to your diet.

Research

Conduct a little research about the herbal supplement to learn which supplements not only serve your purpose but also are appropriate for you. For instance, if you are a heart patient, certain ginsengs may counteract your condition.

Safety Considerations

Unlike prescription drugs mandated and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the agency does not oversee how herbal supplements are manufactured. In other words, these supplements may not contain exactly what the label claims. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is not authorized to approve herbal supplements before they are marketed. Consequently, not all herbal supplements may not be as safe as they seem.

Review the following information before making an herbal/vitamin supplement decision:

• The herbal supplement’s name (in example, gingko biloba)
• Quantity of the contents (in example, 100 capsules)
• Supplement Facts information – including: serving size, amount, active ingredient, and inactive ingredients
• Name and contact information of the manufacturer, packer or distributor
• Product disclaimer: (in example, "Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA..." and/or “…product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease."