A new study warns that when taken as dietary supplements, they can damage the liver if abused
Much has been written about their beneficial effects on the body, but a new study warns that herbs such as turmeric, green tea and black cohosh, taken as dietary supplements, can harm the liver if misused.
Most people who consume them are hospitalized with hepatotoxicity, researchers report.
The researchers mainly looked at six products: turmeric, green tea extract, Garcinia cambodgia plant, simisifuga, red rice yeast and ashwagandha.
Studying data on nearly 9,700 adults from 2017 to 2021, they found high rates of use of such herbs.
For example, they estimated that more than 11 million adults in the United States regularly take turmeric supplements with the belief that it can relieve pain or arthritis.
Unfortunately, “multiple randomized clinical trials have failed to demonstrate the efficacy of turmeric-containing products in osteoarthritis,” and excessive use of turmeric has been associated with severe hepatotoxicity.
Similarly, more than 3 million adults are estimated to take green tea extract, another potential liver toxicant, commonly to stimulate and aid in weight loss.
But again, studies show no objective evidence of weight loss and improved mood or energy levels with products containing green tea extract active ingredients, they noted.
Accordingly, Garcinia cambodgia is advertised for weight loss, black cohosh for reducing hot flashes, and ashwagandha for strengthening muscles.
Scientists have noted that consumers may misuse these supplements or be misled by labels that do not reflect the supplements’ actual ingredients. This can result in more and more consumers being taken to the hospital.
The researchers also said it’s critical that consumers inform their doctors because of the risk of interactions with over-the-counter medications.
When such herbs are abused, liver damage “can be not only severe, leading to hepatocellular (liver) damage with jaundice, but also fatal, leading to death or liver transplantation,” the research team warned.