http://www.slate.com/articles/health..._a.single.html


"Appallingly, the FDA trusts manufacturers and marketers to decide for themselves if an herbal remedy is safe, they will take action only if problems are reported later, essentially letting the dietary supplement and herbal remedy industry field-test their products on the public, with no supervision."


The article speaks about the use of herbal remedies as opposed to pharmaceuticals based on the fear of unknown chemicals. The take away message here is know what you are taking and its potential effects regardless of where it originates. I have used a number of herbal remedies as recommended by an experienced herbalist. I take the time to read up on the effects and dosing ranges before I compound my own mixtures. But I also take a quick tour of any new pharmaceuticals prescribed for me so I know what I am taking there as well. Don't be immediately negative about either the pharmacy produced drugs or about the herbal remedies. Just be aware of your choices. And, if you choose an herbal remedy, get as close to the source as you can. Buy raw herbs if possible to avoid the possibility of other substances being mixed in.