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Complementary and Integrative Medicine: Herbs and Dietary Supplements

Herbs and Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements can be made from a variety of substances including vitamins, minerals, and herbs or other botanicals. They can be found in many forms such as oils, pills, and powders. It's important to keep in mind that research has confirmed health benefits of some dietary supplements but not others. Although many dietary supplements (and some prescription drugs) come from natural sources, “natural” does not always mean “safe.”  Some dietary supplements may interact with medications or pose risks if you have medical problems or are going to have surgery. Talk to your healthcare providers about any and all dietary supplements you are currently taking or are considering taking.

Helpful Websites

Recommended Apps

About Herbs App

Memorial Sloan Kettering’s About Herbs app provides the same comprehensive, objective information about herbs, botanicals, and supplements that is found on the About Herbs website. Search by product name or medical condition to find information on usage, adverse effects and drug interactions of over 200 herbs and supplements. Users can access content offline after the app has been downloaded, with no internet connection needed. 

Available for iOS (iPhone and iPad) only. 

Resources provided by the Cancer Resource Library are for informational purposes only. The information in these materials may or may not apply to your specific condition, and should not be construed as medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult your healthcare provider to review anything you learn through these resources.

Ridley-Tree Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer treatment and support programs for patients and families. We are recognized for medical excellence, a strong clinical research program, and a multidisciplinary approach to cancer prevention.

Cancer Resource Library | 540 West Pueblo Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 | (805) 563-5807 | library@ridleytreecc.org | www.ridleytreecc.org