In the ‘Our take’ section of each Mayoclinic.org piece on herbs, supplements and vitamins, there is a recommendation. Find out what these recommendations mean.

• Generally safe. This recommendation means at least some research shows that the product does what is claimed. The product is considered generally safe when used as directed. But this label doesn’t mean it’s OK to take the product for any condition or in any amount. Often, a product is considered generally safe because studies have found the product is helpful for only one or two conditions. The product might not be effective for other conditions. Also, saying it is generally safe only means that the product is one possible therapy to think about. It’s up to you and your doctor or other healthcare professional to decide if the product is right for you.
• Caution. This recommendation can mean that there might be a lack of research that shows the product is effective. Or there might be some proof that the product is effective, but there also might be a higher risk of side effects or health problems. Talk to your doctor or other healthcare professional about the risks and benefits before adding one of these products to your routine. Follow up with your doctor or other healthcare professional if you have any side effects.
• Avoid. This recommendation means that there’s either no research that shows the product’s benefits, the risk related to taking the product is high, or both. It’s generally best to not use these products.

Always talk about your use of supplements with your doctor or other healthcare professional. And be sure to take supplements according to directions. Keep in mind that most products haven’t been studied for longer than six months to find out their long-term effects.

If you have harmful effects that you think are related to use of an herb, supplement or vitamin, be sure to submit a safety report through the Safety Reporting Portal of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Aug. 23, 2023