Herbal Supplements: Do they work? Are they worth it? - Vitamins & Supplements Message Board

MachOneMustang · 09-16-2004, 11:40 AM

Hey Guys.

On top of my current supplement intake (an “Ultra Mega” multivitamin and MSM), I was considering possibly adding a few herbs as well. Doing some minor research, I picked out Ginseng, Gingko Biloba, and St. John’s Wort. From what I understand these are some of the most popular herbs out there. An overall boost in energy and well-being, as well as an enhanced mood balance is what I’m looking to achieve.

My question to you is… are they worth it? Do herbal supplements really benefit those who take them? Do they actually do what they claim to? If so, do you have to take them in high dosages to see results? Basically, what it comes down to is… are they a waste of money?

Also, how safe are herbal supplements? Now I know especially in the case of Ginseng and Gingko Biloba, people have taken and sworn by them for thousands of years, so I’m assuming they are relatively safe to take as a dietary supplement. However, can the body become dependant on them, much like a drug or medication?

Honestly, I myself think they’re worth a shot, but I would like to hear it from those who have either researched them better than I, or have experienced results (positive or negative) first-hand.

Any input would be appreciated and thanks in advance!

greensky · 09-17-2004, 01:59 PM

I believe most herbal products are perfectly safe, and wouldn’t be concerned about getting dependant on the ones you mention. Find a supplier you trust and follow the recommendations they give on dosages. I also think you should look each one up on the net and see what the possible, if any adverse reaction may be, so you are informed and can stop if they occur.

Some herbs also have some precautions you need to follow like any interaction with any meds you may be taking. Also if you are ill see a doctor.

If there are worth the money or not is good question, I think it varies from person to person and what you expect from taking them. I don’t know how you live, food exercise etc. If you eat unhealthy and drink coke all day, I don’t think taking a herb is magically going to make you healthy.

I take some herbs (supplements) and I am pleased with them others I have tried did nothing for me.

peregrine · 09-18-2004, 04:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MachOneMustang

Hey Guys.

On top of my current supplement intake (an “Ultra Mega” multivitamin and MSM), I was considering possibly adding a few herbs as well. Doing some minor research, I picked out Ginseng, Gingko Biloba, and St. John’s Wort. From what I understand these are some of the most popular herbs out there. An overall boost in energy and well-being, as well as an enhanced mood balance is what I’m looking to achieve.

My question to you is… are they worth it? Do herbal supplements really benefit those who take them? Do they actually do what they claim to? If so, do you have to take them in high dosages to see results? Basically, what it comes down to is… are they a waste of money?

Also, how safe are herbal supplements? Now I know especially in the case of Ginseng and Gingko Biloba, people have taken and sworn by them for thousands of years, so I’m assuming they are relatively safe to take as a dietary supplement. However, can the body become dependant on them, much like a drug or medication?

Honestly, I myself think they’re worth a shot, but I would like to hear it from those who have either researched them better than I, or have experienced results (positive or negative) first-hand.

Any input would be appreciated and thanks in advance!

One size fits all does not work with herbal or any other supplements. Take Ginseng, for instance, there are two kinds - American and Chinese - you need to know which one is best for you. I take American because Chinese would add too much heat to my system. Ginko, also, is not an appropriate supplement for everyone. Contrary to popular belief, herbs can cause more problems if taken haphazardly. They are powerful medicine, not a benign bandaid. If you are seriously interested in beginning an herbal regime, I would recommend seeing a Naturopath, herbalist or Wholistic practitioner so that they can steer you toward those herbs that will best benefit YOUR system and/or do your own research on each herb your interested in trying. Knowledge is power.