Hepatotoxicity of herbal and dietary supplements: an update

摘要: Herbal and dietary supplements (HDS) have been used for health-related purposes since more than 5000 years, their application is firmly anchored in all societies worldwide. Over last decades, a remarkable renaissance the use of HDS can be noticed affluent manifold reasons. are forms complementary alternative medicines commonly to prevent or treat diseases, simply as health tonic. Another growing indication alleged benefit weight loss increase physical fitness. Access easy via internet mail-order pharmacies, turnover reaches billions dollars USA Europe alone. However, generally not categorized drugs thus less strictly regulated most countries. As result, scientific evidence proving beneficial effects mostly lacking, although some may purported benefits. majority lacks such proof value, predominantly based on belief hope. In addition missing supporting use, typically prone batch-to-batch variability composition concentration, contamination, purposeful adulteration. Moreover, numerous examples preparations emerged which linked significant liver injury. These include single ingredients, kava, germander, several Chinese herbals. Other products associated with toxicity consist multiple, often ill-defined Hydroxycut Herbalife. Affirmative diagnostic tests available, assessment injury ascribed depends thorough proactive medical history, careful exclusion other causes, search available reports similar events intake suspected preparation ingredients contained therein.