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Nutrition.gov
U.S. Department of Agriculture

Herbal Supplements

Get information on popular types of herbal supplements, including what they are used for, if they work, and what to avoid.

  • Questions and Answers About Milk Thistle

    Learn about milk thistle, including its use, history, side effects, and results of clinical trials.

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute

  • Questions and Answers About Mistletoe

    Learn about mistletoe and its use in complementary and alternative medical approaches.

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute

  • Bodybuilding and Performance Enhancement Supplements: What You Need To Know

    Learn about the safety and effectiveness of bodybuilding and athletic supplements.

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

  • Cancer: In Depth

    Can dietary supplements and other complimentary health approaches help with managing cancer symptoms? Find tips based on the latest science.

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

  • Diabetes and Dietary Supplements

    What does science say about use of dietary supplements for diabetes? Get the answers here.

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

  • Herbs at a Glance

    Find fact sheets with information about specific herbs or botanicals—common names, what the science says, potential side effects and cautions, and resources for more information.

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

  • HerbList App

    The HerbList App provides research-based information about the safety and effectiveness of herbal products.

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

  • St. John's Wort and Depression

    Summarizes scientific research on St. John’s wort for depression and suggests sources for more information.

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

  • Weight Control

    Tips about the safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements for weight control.

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

  • Herbal Medicine

    Find information and resources for understanding herbal medicine. 

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, MedlinePlus

  • Herbs and Supplements

    Browse a list of dietary supplements and herbal remedies to learn about their effectiveness, safety, and drug interactions. 

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine, MedlinePlus

  • Botanical Dietary Supplements: Background Information

    Find background information about botanicals and their use, safety, and health benefits as dietary supplements. See Botanical Supplement Fact Sheets for information about specific botanical supplements.

    • HHS, National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements

  • Apple Cider Vinegar In Dietary Supplements

    Discover information about the safety and effectiveness of apple cider vinegar supplements.

    • Department of Defense, Uniformed Services University, Consortium for Health and Military Performance

  • Essential Oils: Are They Safe To Ingest?

    Explore safety concerns about essential oils in supplements and foods.

    • Department of Defense, Uniformed Services University, Consortium for Health and Military Performance