#BotanicalRisks

Many people in Thailand turn to dietary supplements to boost wellbeing. A recent study published in JAMA Network Open in 2024 raises concerns that some well-liked botanicals may harm liver health. The liver is essential for detoxification and metabolism, and damage can lead to serious consequences, including liver failure.

The research identified six botanical supplements linked to liver toxicity: Ashwagandha, Black Cohosh, Garcinia Cambogia, Green Tea Extract, Red Yeast Rice, and Turmeric/Curcumin. These products are often marketed for arthritis relief, menopause symptoms, and other age-related concerns. In Thailand, where herbal remedies are deeply rooted in culture, this finding resonates with many consumers who trust “natural” solutions.

As health-conscious individuals, it’s not uncommon for those of us in Thailand to turn to dietary supplements as a means of enhancing our well-being. However, recent research highlights alarming findings from a study published in JAMA Network Open in 2024, pointing out that certain popular supplements might pose significant risks to our liver’s health. This is particularly crucial given that the liver is central to our body’s ability to detoxify and metabolize substances, and damage to it can result in severe health repercussions, including liver failure.