2012 5 most search herbs NCCAM

http://nccam.nih.gov/health/providers/digest/topsupplements?nav=cd

January 2013

In 2012, over 3 million visitors came to NCCAM’s Web site seeking information on complementary health approaches. Though many people were looking for information on particular health topics or specific modalities like acupuncture, yoga, and meditation, the majority was seeking information on specific herbs and botanicals.
This issue of the Digest highlights the top 5 searched-for herbs that led visitors to our site:

1. Evening Primrose Oil
2. St. John’s Wort
3. Fenugreek
4. Echinacea
5. Aloe Vera

These herbs and botanicals are widely marketed and readily available, often sold as dietary supplements. However, the scientific evidence available to assess safety or efficacy of each of these products is quite variable. In some cases, there is limited evidence to support a product’s use, while in others, evidence identifies significant safety concerns, fails to suggest efficacy, or is insufficient.  Because of this variability, consumers and health care providers should carefully review the available information before deciding to use a specific product.