Echinacea and St. John s wort are two fairly safe herbal supplements, although St. John s wort commonly recommended for depression has been known to cause gastrointestinal problems, fatigue and confusion in some who take it. It may also mask symptoms of depression related to other medical problems. Despite the fact that there are no documented studies of this product s long term use, millions continue to use it faithfully. Even simple vitamin supplements are not always beneficial. A healthy adult can obtain all of the vitamins he or she needs most safely from a well-balanced diet.
Extra vitamins can be detrimental to the body.
But it is up to consumers to know what they re taking. It s best to consult a doctor when thinking of taking supplements, especially to inquire about interaction with prescription medication.