Natural health products are available without a prescription, but they must be accompanied by the appropriate evidence for safety and efficacy. The evidence for health claims may include clinical trials, published studies, pharmacopeias, and other scientific sources. The amount of evidence needed depends on the proposed health claim and the product’s risks. There are also specific labeling requirements for natural health products. To ensure quality, natural products should be tested before being marketed.
Understanding the interactions between natural and prescribed medications is important. In addition, these products may have a different effect on children. Using them concurrently with other drugs can increase the risk of an adverse reaction. On the other hand, some natural products can block the effect of prescription medication. So, always consult your physician before using any natural health product. It is best to avoid using it while pregnant or nursing. It is also important to avoid its use if you have a medical condition.