Volume 20, Issue 3 p. 257-269

Safety Issues with Herbal Medicine

Dr. Joseph I. Boullata Pharm.D.

Corresponding Author

Dr. Joseph I. Boullata Pharm.D.

Department of Pharmacy Practice, Temple University School of Pharmacy, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Temple University School of Pharmacy, 3307 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140.Search for more papers by this author
Dr. Angela M. Nace Pharm.D.

Dr. Angela M. Nace Pharm.D.

Drug Information Center, Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Search for more papers by this author
First published: 17 January 2012
Citations: 124

Abstract

As herbal medicines are used by increasing numbers of people, pharmacists must be knowledgeable about their safety. This requires appreciation of the magnitude of use, as well as regulations under which the products are marketed that may affect their safety. Unexpected effects of many popular herbal products are described in the literature. Thus the pharmacist's role in ensuring protection of the consumer continues to grow.