A large and increasing number of patients use medicinal herbs or seek
the advice of their physician regarding their use. More than one third
of Americans use herbs for health purposes, yet patients (and physici
ans) often lack accurate information about the safety and efficacy of
herbal remedies. Burgeoning interest in medicinal herbs has increased
scientific scrutiny of their therapeutic potential and safety, thereby
providing physicians with data to help patients make wise decisions a
bout their use. This article provides a review of the data on 12 of th
e most commonly used herbs in the United States. In addition, we provi
de practical information and guidelines for the judicious use of medic
inal herbs.