New Study Reveals a List of 6 Herbal Supplements That May Cause Liver Damage: MD Weighs In

Herbal dietary supplements have been used for years and are having even more of a moment now, thanks to social media. Many people are excited to share the benefits of natural remedies, but natural doesn’t always mean safe. In fact, a new study in the journal Jama Network Open revealed that there are at least six different herbal supplements that cause liver damage. Keep reading to see the list of supplements that cause liver damage, plus how to protect your liver.

List of supplements that cause liver damage

A new study from researchers at the University of Michigan revealed that six different herbal supplements are potentially hepatoxic, or can cause liver damage. The supplements include:

• Turmeric and curcumin
• Green tea extract
• Garcinia cambogia (a tropical fruit and popular weight loss supplement)
• Black cohosh
• Red yeast rice
• Ashwagandha

These all contain plant-based ingredients and are labeled as botanical products or herbal supplements. “While they’re popular for supposed health benefits, they can lead to serious liver issues, especially if taken in high doses or for long periods,” explains Raj Dasgupta, MD, ABIM , a quadruple board-certified physician and medical reviewer for NCOA.

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According to the study, an estimated 15.6 million American adults have taken at least one herbal supplement that may be damaging to their liver in the past 30 days. The amount of people who use hepatoxic botanical products is similar to the number who use prescribed hepatoxic drugs such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Supplements are popular and often recommended for various health needs. While you don’t need to completely swear off herbal products, it's smart to take precautions if you have or are prone to liver problems.

“There’s a belief that the health benefits of these supplements outweigh the risks," says Dr. Dasgupta. "However, the potential for liver damage is real. It's important to consider these risks carefully."

Natural doesn’t always mean safe

“ Over 80,000 herbal dietary supplements (HDS) products can be purchased without a prescription at various unregulated retail outlets or via the internet,” note study authors in the report. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration often doesn’t regulate these supplements. And some herbs have side effects that can interfere with existing medications or cause potential liver damage.

Dr. Dasgupta suggests avoiding supplements with a history of liver damage or those that aren’t well-researched. “Be cautious of products labeled as ‘all-natural’ without scientific proof of safety,” he says. “Also, steer clear of supplements with vague ingredient lists, as you might take more than is safe without realizing it.”

The supplement industry isn’t nearly as strict as prescription drugs when it comes to regulation, which ultimately leads to differences in quality and safety with herbal products.

What to know about taking herbal supplements and liver damage

“Always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, as even safer ones can interact with medications or health conditions,” says Dr. Dasgupta.

Additionally, if you do choose to take these potentially risky supplements, “take precautions: talk to your doctor, limit how long you use them, follow the dosage instructions carefully and get regular liver function tests if you use them long-term,” says Dr. Dasgupta.

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If you decide to use supplements that may have been linked to cases of liver injury, look for a reputable retailer. “Make sure you purchase from trusted sources that follow good manufacturing practices (GMP), and look for products that have been third-party tested to ensure they’re safe and effective,” adds Dr. Dasgupta.

More ways to protect your liver

Instead of taking supplements, Dr. Dasgupta suggests modifying or improving your daily habits. For example, shifting your diet to healthier foods can help your liver health in the long run.

“A diet high in processed foods, saturated fats and sugars can contribute to conditions like metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD),” says Dr. Dasgupta. Also excessive intake of these foods “overwhelms the liver, leading to fat accumulation and inflammation.”

More health news on popular vitamins and supplements:

Do Multivitamins Work? What an MD Wants Women Over 50 To Know

What Is Colostrum and Why Are Celebrities Using It to Boost Their Health? A Closer Look

The Benefits of Spirulina for Women: Lower Blood Sugar and Cholesterol

This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan .