Herbal Supplements: What They Are, How They Work, and What to Watch For

When you hear herbal supplements, natural products made from plants used to support health or treat symptoms. Also known as botanicals, they’re often seen as safer than pills because they come from nature. But that’s a myth. Just because something grows in the ground doesn’t mean it’s harmless. In fact, some herbs can mess with your liver, kidneys, or heart—especially when mixed with other supplements or meds. The truth is, herbal supplements aren’t regulated like prescription drugs. That means what’s on the label isn’t always what’s inside. You could be buying a product with fillers, contaminants, or even hidden pharmaceuticals. That’s why knowing what you’re taking matters more than ever.

Take liver health, how well your liver filters toxins and processes nutrients. It’s the first line of defense when you swallow anything, including herbs. Some herbs like kava, green tea extract, and black cohosh have been linked to liver damage in rare cases. Symptoms? Fatigue, nausea, yellow skin, dark urine. These aren’t side effects you can ignore. And it’s not just about single herbs—herbal combinations, mixing multiple plant-based supplements together. Also known as herbal stacks, they can create dangerous interactions you didn’t see coming. Stacking turmeric with blood thinners? Bad idea. Taking ashwagandha with thyroid meds? Could mess with your hormone levels. Even something as simple as drinking coriander seed water for kidney function, how well your kidneys filter waste and balance fluids. Also known as renal health, it’s a common goal for people trying to avoid dialysis or manage high blood pressure. can help—but only if you’re not already on kidney medication. Same goes for CoQ10, a compound your body makes naturally to produce energy in cells. Also known as ubiquinone, it’s often taken for heart health and energy, but it can lower blood pressure too much if you’re already on meds.

There’s no magic herb that fixes everything. What works for one person might do nothing—or cause harm—for another. Your age, existing conditions, and other meds all change the game. That’s why you need to ask questions: Is this backed by real studies? Who made it? Does it have third-party testing? Can I talk to my doctor about it? The best herbal supplements aren’t the ones with the flashiest packaging. They’re the ones you understand, use carefully, and monitor for effects.

Below, you’ll find real, no-fluff guides on what herbal supplements actually do, which ones to avoid, how they affect your body, and how to spot the difference between science and sales pitches. Whether you’re trying to support your kidneys, protect your liver, or just feel more energized, these articles give you the facts you need to decide—not just what to take, but whether you should take it at all.