Evidence-Based Safety Monitoring Remains Essential for Ayurvedic Herbal Medicines

Ayurvedic preparations include a wide range of plant-based products and, in some formulations, mineral or metallic ingredients. Their composition, manufacturing quality and concentration can vary considerably between products. Herbal products may cause side effects, interact with prescription medicines or contain contaminants when manufacturing and quality controls are inadequate. Products marketed as natural are not automatically safe for every individual. People with liver or kidney disease, pregnant individuals, children and people taking multiple medications should be especially cautious when considering herbal preparations. Some products may also interfere with treatment for diabetes, hypertension or other chronic conditions. Consumers should use products from appropriately regulated sources and disclose herbal preparations to their healthcare professionals. Claims that a traditional remedy cures a serious disease should be evaluated against reliable clinical evidence.