Botanicals: Not Always Benign

Overuse of Turmeric, Green Tea, and Black Cohosh Linked to Liver Injury

HealthDay News -- May 5, 2024

Botanicals like turmeric, green tea, and black cohosh may seem benign, but their overuse is increasingly being linked to liver injury, according to a new study.

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego, found that at least 156 million U.S. adults may have consumed one herbal product with the potential to damage their liver within the last 30 days. The study was published in the journal "Hepatology."

The researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and found that 20% of adults reported using at least one herbal product in the past 30 days. Of those who used herbal products, 22% reported using a product with the potential to cause liver damage.

The most commonly used botanicals with the potential to cause liver damage were turmeric (10%), green tea (8%), and black cohosh (6%).

The researchers found that people who used herbal products with the potential to cause liver damage were more likely to be female, older, and have a history of liver disease.

The study also found that people who used herbal products with the potential to cause liver damage were more likely to take other medications, which can increase the risk of liver injury.

The researchers conclude that their findings suggest that the overuse of botanicals with the potential to cause liver damage is a public health concern.

The researchers recommend that people talk to their doctor before using any herbal products, especially if they have a history of liver disease or are taking other medications.

Conclusion

The overuse of botanicals like turmeric, green tea, and black cohosh can pose a serious threat to liver health. It is important to be aware of the potential risks and to talk to your doctor before using any herbal products.