In a recent report, it has been highlighted that some popular herbal supplements—commonly used by older adults for various health benefits—pose significant risks to liver health. While many consume dietary supplements with the hope of filling nutritional gaps or alleviating health issues like joint pain, there is an alarming association with liver damage, which can be severe enough to lead to liver failure.
The investigation, based on a study published in JAMA Network Open in 2024, points out that six botanicals are most commonly linked to liver toxicity. These are Ashwagandha, Black Cohosh, Garcinia Cambogia, Green Tea Extract, Red Yeast Rice, and Turmeric/Curcumin. The study emphasized that such supplements are frequently taken by middle-aged and older adults, who are often more vulnerable to their adverse effects due to age-related changes in liver function.
The significance of this report cannot be overstated, especially for the Thai population, where supplements are widely available and consumed. With more than 15.6 million people in the US alone having used potentially liver-damaging botanicals recently, the global implications are clear. The liver, an organ playing a crucial role as the body’s detoxifier, is at risk due to these supplements which are sometimes incorrectly assumed to be safe because they are “natural” products.
Medical experts like Dr. Don Rockey from the Medical University of South Carolina and Dr. Arun Jesudian from New York–Presbyterian in New York, underscore that even natural compounds require liver processing. They caution that age-related liver changes and combined supplement interactions may render the liver more susceptible to damage, varying from inflammation to acute failure requiring transplantation.
Adding complexity, the regulation of supplements, particularly in the U.S., is less stringent compared to prescription medications. Supplements often face post-market scrutiny, and a rampant issue is the mislabeling of products. An examination of 272 dietary supplements found over half were mislabeled, revealing hidden ingredients not indicated on the packaging, such as compounds that influence liver toxicity.
Thailand’s consumers are advised to exercise caution. Here are recommended steps:
Research Thoroughly: Use trusted resources like the LiverTox database to verify supplement safety.
Consult Healthcare Providers: Critical regardless of health status, especially if a liver issue exists or is anticipated.
Be Cautious with Herbals: Prefer reputable brands and remain wary of concentrated botanical mixtures.
Look for Third-party Testing: Select products verified by organizations ensuring label accuracy and absence of contaminants.
Avoid Liver-focused Supplements: There’s no substantiation that these improve liver health; prioritize a balanced diet and lifestyle instead.
Regular Health Checks: Ensure routine blood work includes liver function tests to detect early signs of liver stress or damage.
The cultural context in Thailand, where traditional and herbal remedies are part of the heritage, makes it vital to balance cultural practices with evidence-based medical advice. The potential benefits of supplements must be weighed against possible risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly.
Moving forward, increased awareness and precautionary measures can mitigate the dangers posed by unchecked supplement use. By educating consumers and encouraging proactive consultations with healthcare professionals, Thailand can align with global health trends to safeguard liver health effectively.