What are the potential risks of herbal supplements?

Herbal supplements can pose several risks, particularly because they are not always regulated as strictly as conventional medications. One of the most significant risks is their potential to interact with other medications that a person may be taking. These interactions can either enhance the effects of medications, leading to increased side effects, or diminish their effectiveness, which can be dangerous for individuals relying on those medications for managing conditions.

Additionally, herbal supplements can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, just like any other substance. The physiological effects can vary widely from person to person due to factors like individual health conditions, sensitivities, or differences in metabolism.

In contrast, the assertion that herbal supplements are always safe without side effects is misleading and ignores the complexities involved. Furthermore, the idea that they provide instant relief without drawbacks oversimplifies their use and overlooks the fact that they can take time to show effects, if they are effective at all. Lastly, claiming that they are only effective for nutritional deficiencies is overly limiting, as many herbal supplements are used for various purposes, not exclusively tied to nutritional gaps.