- 1a
Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics ,
University of Utah School of Medicine , Salt Lake City , UT , USA.
- 2b Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences , The University of British Columbia , Vancouver , Canada.
- 3c Department of Pharmacy , Vancouver General Hospital , Vancouver , Canada.
- 4d Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , UT , USA.
- 5e
Division of Microbiology and Immunology, the Department of Pathology ,
University of Utah School of Medicine , Salt Lake City , UT , USA.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Similar
to other nations North American people used herbs for thousands of
years to treat diseases and purify their spirits. By the middle of the
1900s, evidence-based conventional medicine received wide acceptance in
Canada and the United States (US). Nowadays, people are going back to
their roots and actively using herbal
medicines (HMs) and natural health products (NHPs). Areas covered: This
article is focusing on use and regulation of the HMs and NHPs in Canada
and the US, raises concerns regarding HM and NHP safety and efficacy,
offers suggestions on how to overcome these problems. Materials
available from legislative and governmental websites, PubMed and news
media were used. Expert commentary: Use of HMs, especially dietary
supplements is widespread among adults in Canada and US. HMs and NHPs
are regulated in both countries, but minimum criteria for product
approval and post-market surveillance have been set. Concerns of
quality, contamination, adulteration, and efficacy in are of central
importance in the discussion of HMs and NHPs. Detailed product
description and research are of vital importance to ensure safety and
efficacy of these products. Additionally, 'herbal'
education of healthcare providers and patients is needed to guarantee
further successful integration of HM and conventional medicines.
KEYWORDS:
Canada; Herbal medicines; United States; dietary supplements; legislation; natural health products; regulations