Santa Clara University

Cowell Student Health Center - Herbs and Herbal Supplements - Health Education

Cowell Student Health Center

Herbs and Herbal Supplements

When you are looking into herbs and herbal supplements, how and where you choose to do your research plays a big part in what results turn up. Just entering "herbs" as opposed to "herbal supplements" can drastically alter what type of information the search engine provides. In addition, your intended purpose of the herbs influences the information available to you.

Our first recommended source provides the reader with excellent resources. Right from the start, the reader is able to look for possible drug/herb interactions as well as have access to an herb database. This section will also address the warnings and limitations of herbal use for the average consumer.

By far the most informative section of this particular site was the "hot herbs" link. Once you click on that, you are able to look up an herb you are curious about and find a wealth of information. During my exploration of the site, I came upon research and links for more common herbs such as Echinacea, Gingko Biloba, Green Tea, Ginseng and St. John's Wort. Each section offered solid information and numerous links.

When looking to use any type of herbal supplement, it is always wise to have as much information as possible. Equally important is discussing any herbal use with your physician should you be on any medications.

If you have any further questions, please stop by the Wellness Center or call x4448.