Herbal Supplements Are Often Not What They Seem

[Joe K]

Very interesting article in the NYT today.  Researchers used DNA barcoding tests and find many supplements are mislabeled and sometimes harmful.

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/05/science/herbal-supplements-are-often-not-what-they-seem.html?hp&_r=0

Joe

[GSOgymrat]

That is interesting. Thanks for sharing.

[Joe K]

That is interesting. Thanks for sharing.

What I found really interesting is they tested 44 samples from 12 brands, bought in both Canada and the States and that a high percentage were not as advertised.  As usual, a spokesperson for the supplement manufacturers, says the problem is not widespread.  Really?  Just how many manufacturers are there out there and if the main 12 peddle this stuff, what about the lesser known brands?

Caveat Emptor, is seems, when it comes to many supplements.

Joe

[tednlou2]

There was recently that diet or muscle building product, that was believed to have caused hepatitis and liver failure.  The FDA really needs to regulate these.  Didn't they just decide to start regulating pet food and treats? 

[mecch]

When I was into herbs I went to well-recommended herb shops. Asking recommendations from healers, yoga places, etc.  The kind of botanical shop with loose herbs in glass jars...  With an owner or some sort of knowledgeable salesperson who knew what was in each jar.  I figured it was a better shot of actually getting whatever herb someone was recommended.
Sometimes the acupuncturists would send me to chinese shops. The atmosphere was wonderful but if it was all packaged, how could you really know. 
I can only wonder, if as the world gets smaller, connected, and more competitive and mean, if this sort of adulteration is just going to increase and be a threat with all food.
It's scary.