People are overusing them.
Botanicals such as turmeric, green tea, and black cohosh, often perceived as harmless, are increasingly being associated with liver damage due to overuse. Recent studies indicate that around 7% of U.S. adults use at least one of the six leading botanicals, translating to approximately 15.6 million people. This trend has led to a rising number of hospitalizations for liver toxicity linked to these supplements.
The lack of regulatory oversight over botanical products has resulted in frequent discrepancies between the ingredients listed on labels and those actually present in the products, according to Dr. Alisa Likhitsup and her team from the University of Michigan. The research focused on six popular botanicals: turmeric, green tea extract, Garcinia cambogia, black cohosh, red yeast rice, and ashwagandha. They analyzed data from nearly 9,700 adults and found that the use of these botanicals is widespread.
For instance, more than 11 million adults use turmeric supplements, often believing they help with pain or arthritis, although studies have not proven turmeric’s effectiveness in treating osteoarthritis. Excessive use of turmeric has been linked to severe liver toxicity. Similarly, over 3 million adults use green tea extract, typically for energy and weight loss, yet research has not shown significant benefits in weight loss or mood improvement from these products.
Other botanicals, like Garcinia cambogia, black cohosh, and ashwagandha, are associated with claims of weight loss, relief from hot flashes, and muscle building, respectively, though many of these claims are unsubstantiated. The misuse of these supplements, compounded by misleading labeling, contributes to an increased incidence of liver-related health issues. Between 2004 and 2014, cases of liver toxicity related to botanicals almost tripled, with significant rises in turmeric and green tea extract cases.
The study found that users of botanicals are typically older, predominantly white women, and often have chronic conditions such as arthritis or thyroid disorders. Many of these individuals also take prescription medications, increasing the risk of harmful interactions. The research team emphasizes the need for improved regulation and oversight to ensure the safety of botanical products and protect consumers from severe liver damage, which can lead to serious health outcomes like liver transplantation.
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