If you are one of the millions of consumers shopping online for herbal supplements, there are a few facts you should know before you make a purchasing decision. Review the following facts on herbal supplements:

Herbal supplements are not appropriate for all people.

All supplements contain active ingredients that may affect the functionality of the body

Verisimilar to prescribed and over the counter medications, herbal supplements may trigger side events

For individuals with chronic diseases, herbal supplement may be risky

Conferring with a physician is recommended before taking supplements.

Unlike prescribed drugs, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is unauthorized to oversee the safety of herbal supplements before they are sold to consumers

Although all supplements should contain the ingredients demarcated on their labels, not all manufacturers adhere to the policy.

A standardized herbal supplements with the U.S. Pharmacopeia's "USP Dietary Supplement Verified" seal should be the first consideration in purchasing a supplement because it confirms that the supplement has met various manufacturing requirements. (The standards are vital because they verify that certain tests of cleanliness, uniformity, and other environmental contaminants such as mercury, lead, other drugs are not contained in the herbal supplement).

Despite the lack of information regarding herbal supplements, consumers should look for the following information on any product they are considering for purchase:

Name of the herbal supplement

Net quantity of contents (in example, 100 capsules)

A supplement facts label that details the serving size, amount and active ingredient

A product disclaimer – identifying that the statements detailed on the herbal supplement have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Other ingredients, such as herbs and amino acids, for which no daily values have been established

The manufacturer or distributor’s name and address