ConsumerLab.com uses JavaScript to provide the best possible experience for our content, but your browser has it disabled. Learn how to enable it here.

About ConsumerLab.com

Ginseng Supplements

Ginseng Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab

Learn how to find the best Ginseng supplements, amounts of ginsenosides found in popular products, and differences between Panax, Chinese, Korean and Siberian, red and white ginseng. Find out more information about using ginseng for energy, colds & flus, ADHD, sexual dysfunction, dosage, safety, side effects and more.

Ginseng Supplements Review

Search term may appear only in full report available to members. Join now for full access.

Product Review

Sexual Enhancer Supplements Review (with Yohimbe, Horny Goat Weed, Arginine)

Choose the Best Sexual Enhancer Supplement. Only 30% of Selected Sexual Enhancement Supplements Pass Quality Tests.

News Release

February 15, 2024

Unveiling the Truth About Green Tea’s EGCG Content

White Plains, NY, February 15, 2024 —  ConsumerLab.com, a trusted name in health and wellness, sheds light on the EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) content in green tea.

CL Answer

Have any supplements been shown to increase women's libido?

Learn more about supplements that may increase women's libido, including DHEA and maca.

Couple 1400

Clinical Update

4/27/2019

No Ginseng In Ginseng Tea?

A popular maker of bottled teas is being sued for allegedly not putting ginseng in its ginseng green tea. For details, see the Quality Concerns section of the Ginseng Supplements Review. Also see which ginseng products were Approved by ConsumerLab (and see our tests of various Green Teas).

CL Answer

Do any supplements help for flu?

Which supplements may help prevent or reduce symptoms of colds or the flu, including vitamin D, ginseng, NAC, and elderberry.

Supplements for Flu -- women with the flu sitting on couch with tissues, thermometer, warm drink

Clinical Update

11/19/2014

Ginseng for ADHD

A ginseng extract showed promise in improving the symptoms of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) without adverse effects in children ages 6 to 15 in a placebo-controlled study. You can get details about this and other studies with ginseng, as well as our test results for ginseng supplements in the Ginseng Supplements Review >> 

CL Answer

Which supplements help with erectile dysfunction?

Supplements for erectile dysfunction. Find out which supplements can help with ED, including ginseng, L-arginine, and maca.

Man in Grey Tee Holding Water and White Supplement

CL Answer

I take insulin (Humalog) for diabetes. Are there supplements that could affect my blood sugar levels and how much insulin I need to take?

Learn more about the interactions between certain supplements and insulin (sold as Humalog, Humulin, Iletin, Lantus, Levemir, Novolin, Novolog, Velosulin, etc.).

Insulin (Humalog) -- insulin pens

News Release

June 16, 2021

Wide Variations in Ginseng Potency, Quality Revealed by ConsumerLab Tests

White Plains, New York, June 16, 2021 — Ginseng is promoted for a wide range of uses, from increasing energy, "vitality," and libido, to improving blood sugar levels and preventing colds.

Clinical Update

3/02/2016

Ginseng for Metabolic Syndrome?

A study in men with metabolic syndrome found no benefit on blood sugar levels from taking ginseng, but a small increase in testosterone. Get the details about this and other uses for ginseng, as well as our quality ratings in the Ginseng Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

8/18/2013

Ginseng Reduces Cancer-Related Fatigue

A well-controlled clinical trial recently showed reduced fatigue among cancer patients given a particular type and dose of ginseng. Get the details, as well as our test results for 16 ginseng supplements, in the updated Ginseng Supplements Review >> 

Clinical Update

11/14/2014

Ginseng for Lower Blood Sugar

A new study found that a certain kind of ginseng helps lower blood sugar levels in people with impaired fasting glucose. For more about this study and related studies on blood sugar and diabetes with other types of ginseng (which have had mixed results), see the Ginseng Supplements Review >> 

Clinical Update

8/28/2021

Can Ginseng Boost Cognition?

Can taking American ginseng improve cognitive function in young people? See what a recent study found in the What It Does section of our Ginseng Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among American ginseng supplements.

Clinical Update

8/02/2020

Ginseng for Liver?

Does taking ginseng lower blood markers of liver disfunction? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of the Ginseng Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for ginseng.

CL Answer

Can any supplements improve or worsen symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Find out if any supplements may help improve fibromyalgia symptoms, learn which supplements do not seem beneficial, and find out if any supplements worsen symptoms.

Woman holding sore back

News Release

March 05, 2015

ConsumerLab.com Shows Chinese Consumers What's Really in Foods and Supplements -- U.S. Testing Company Expands to China, Launches cn.ConsumerLab.com

White Plains, New York, March 5, 2015 — Since 1999, American consumers and doctors have turned to ConsumerLab.com (CL) to find out which nutritional products are highest in quality based independent testing. Today, CL launched a Chinese-language website cn.ConsumerLab.

CL Answer

I've heard that grapefruit juice can interact with medications because it inhibits an enzyme that breaks down drugs in the body. Do any supplements interact the same way with drugs?

CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as grapefruit, can interact with certain medications by inhibiting the liver enzyme that metabolizes many drugs. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Grapefruit Juice, CYP3A4 and Supplement Interactions -- glass of grapefruit juice and grapefruit halves

CL Answer

10 Supplements That May Boost Testosterone (And 11 That May Not)

Many supplements promise to increase testestorone, boost libido, and increase muscle size, but, as ConsumerLab explains, the actual effectiveness of supplements is limited, and some supplements may actually reduce testosterone levels.

Chalkboard sign that says low testosterone sitting on a table in front of a book and supplements

News Release

December 21, 2012

ConsumerLab.com Tests Reveal What's Really In Green Tea Supplements and Bottled Drinks

White Plains, New York — December 21, 2012 — How do levels of EGCG and caffeine in green tea supplements and bottled teas compare with levels provided in a typical brewed green tea? It very much depends on the brand, according to new tests by ConsumerLab.com.

CL Answer

Do any supplements help relieve stress?

Are there actually supplements for stress relief and panic attacks? Learn more about holy basil, fish oil, L-theanine, and ginseng.

CL Answer

Do any supplements help prevent or treat a cold?

Are there supplements that can help prevent or treat cold symptoms? Learn more about zinc, probiotics, vitamin C and more.

Supplements for Colds: Zinc, Echinacea & More -- Couple with cold, sitting on couch blowing their noses

Clinical Update

9/17/2020

Does Ginseng Prevent Colds?

Ginseng may increase levels of certain immune cells in the body, but does this result in fewer colds? See what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of the Ginseng Supplements Review.

Clinical Update

9/13/2020

Ginseng for Desire?

Does ginseng improve desire and satisfaction in women? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of Ginseng Supplements Review.

Clinical Update

2/27/2018

Ginseng Role in Diabetes

Results of a recent study suggest that a form of ginseng can help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Get the details in the What It Does section of the Ginseng Supplements Review.

Clinical Update

4/16/2019

Ginseng Interaction?

Liver injury was recently reported in a man who began taking a Siberian ginseng supplement in addition to his prescription statin medication. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Ginseng Supplements Review.

CL Answer

Adrenal Fatigue and Adrenal Support Supplements: Do they work and are they safe?

Find out what's really in supplements for adrenal support and adrenal fatigue, including herbal adrenal support supplements and bovine derived adrenal support supplements. Find out if they really work and if they are safe. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Adrenal Fatigue and Adrenal Support Supplements -- Tired Woman Falling Asleep at Her Desk

CL Answer

What supplements should I stop taking before surgery?

Info on which supplements to avoid before surgery due to increased risk of bleeding or interference with anesthesia.

Supplements to stop before surgery - operating room

CL Answer

Which supplements help with Raynaud's phenomenon?

Raynaud's phenomenon may be helped by some supplements. Learn more about fish oil, Gingko biloba, and ginseng.

Supplements for Raynaud's Phenomenon -- woman standing outside in snow, with cold, red hands

Product Review

Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review

Best Multivitamins In 2023 -- Caution with Gummies

Product Review

Breast Enhancement Supplements Review Article

Do Breast Enhancement Supplements Really Work? See the Evidence For and Against Breast Enhancement Supplements.

Do Breast Enhancement Supplements Work?

CL Answer

I take warfarin (Coumadin), an anticoagulant drug. Are there supplements I should avoid, or be taking, due to this drug?

Find out which supplements should be avoided when taking blood thinners (anticoagulants) like warfarin (Coumadin), including vitamin K, St. John's wort, and curcumin.

Warfarin Supplement Interactions -- bottle of pink warfarin tablets

CL Answer

With herbal supplements, what is the difference between root powder and root extract? Does it matter?

Learn more about the different forms of herbal supplements, including aloe, boswellia, ginkgo, green tea, and milk thistle.

Herbal Supplements

CL Answer

Which supplements and foods can help lower or control blood sugar?

Find out which supplements can help lower or control blood sugar. Supplements including turmeric/curcumin, fiber, cinnamon, and ginseng are believed to help lower blood sugar.

Blood Sugar Control -- blood test and blood sugar chart

Product Review

L-Arginine Supplements Review

Choose the Best L-Arginine Supplement. Find Out Which L-Arginine Supplement Passed CL's Tests.

L-Arginine Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Product Review

Green Tea Review: Tea Bags, Matcha Powders, and Supplements

Some green teas provide barely any green tea polyphenols, while some others are high strength. See the Test Results and Our Top Picks for Green Tea.

Green Tea Review 2024

CL Answer

Which supplements help to improve energy and decrease fatigue?

Energy supplements and vitamins - Some can help increase energy and reduce fatigue, including CoQ10, curcumin/turmeric, cocoa, and B vitamins.

Supplements to Improve Energy and Decrease Fatigue -- tired woman yawning at desk

CL Answer

Are there supplements I should avoid when taking apixaban (Eliquis) or similar blood thinner drugs like Xarelto?

Learn about supplement interactions with apixaban (Eliquis), rivaroxaban (Xarelto) and other blood thinner drugs in the direct factor Xa inhibitors class.

Eliquis Supplement Interactions -- box of Eliquis

CL Answer

Are there any supplements I should avoid when taking acetaminophen (Tylenol)?

Find out if there are any supplements that should be avoided when taking acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Interactions With Supplements -- box of Tylenol

Product Review

B Vitamin Supplements Review (B Complexes, B6, B12, Biotin, Folate, Niacin, Riboflavin & More)

See Which B Vitamins Are ConsumerLab's Top Picks!

Review of B Vitamin Supplements

Product Review

Rhodiola Rosea Supplements Review

Do Rhodiola Supplements Help With Depression and Anxiety? Find Out and See Which Rhodiola Supplements Provide the Best Quality & Value.

Rhodiola Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

News Release

August 31, 2011

ConsumerLab.com analyzes supplements for sexual dysfunction -- Only three out of ten products selected for testing pass

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — August 31, 2011 — Only three out of ten supplements selected for testing that are for sexual enhancement passed ConsumerLab.com's latest investigation.

News Release

August 16, 2010

Problems persist with ginseng supplements -- Review by ConsumerLab.com finds 45% of products don't provide full amount of ingredient or are contaminated

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — August 16, 2010 — ConsumerLab.com reported today that five out of eleven ginseng supplements recently selected for testing contained less ginseng than expected from their labels or were contaminated with lead and/or pesticides.

News Release

October 10, 2006

Care advised with natural cold remedies: ConsumerLab.com finds few products with proper quality and directions — ConsumerLab.com offers advice from tests of echinacea, garlic, ginseng, vitamin C, and zinc supplements

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2006 — Autumn is the beginning of "cold season" — the period through early spring when people are most likely to develop a cold. But based on ConsumerLab.

CL Answer

What are the health benefits of andrographis? Can it treat colds, help with joint pain, or other conditions, and is it safe?

Learn about the health benefits of andrographis, whether it can help relieve cold symptoms, reduce pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, decrease symptoms of ulcerative colitis, or slow the growth of cancer. See the clinical evidence for the branded andrographis extract ParActin. Plus, learn about dosage, side effects and drug interactions with andrographis.

Andrographis

Product Review

Maca Supplements Review

Choose the Best Maca Supplement. Make Sure Your Maca Supplement Isn't Contaminated With Lead.

Maca Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Recalls & Warnings

August 14, 2023

Liver Injury Linked to "Immune Booster" Supplement Sold on Amazon

A 27-year-old woman in Pennsylvania was admitted to intensive care for drug-induced liver injury after taking Prodigy Life HRP-AID, a supplement sold on Amazon and promoted as an "immune system booster" to reduce the intensity and frequency of cold sore outbreaks, according to a ...

Product Review

Menopause Supplements Review (Soy and Red Clover Isoflavones, Black Cohosh) and Progesterone Creams

Choose the Best Menopause Supplement. Find Out Now Which Soy Isoflavone, Red Clover, Black Cohosh, and Progesterone Products Have the Active Compounds You Want!

Menopause Supplements Tested by ConsumerLab.com -- Soy and Red Clover Isoflavones, Black Cohosh, and Progesterone Cream

Recalls & Warnings

April 17, 2021

NS NY Distributor Inc Male Enhancement Products Recalled Due to Undeclared Drugs

On April 8, 2021, NS NY Distributor Inc issued a recall of all lots of Premium Orgazen 7000 and Ginseng Power 5000 male enhancement capsules because FDA analysis found them to contain sildenafil and/or tadalafil.

Recalls & Warnings

December 17, 2004

FDA Seizes Ginseng Because of Potentially Risky Pesticide Residues

On December 16, 2004, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey issued a warrant for the seizure of imported ginseng held for sale at FCC Products, Inc., located in Livingston, N.J. The U.S.

News Release

May 24, 2006

Problems persist with ginseng supplements — ConsumerLab.com finds nearly half of products lack ingredient or contaminated

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — May 24, 2006 — ConsumerLab.com has released test results for dietary supplements made with ginseng, a popular herb promoted for vitality and the treatment or prevention of a range of medical conditions.

Recalls & Warnings

June 01, 2011

FDA Finds Pesticides in Ginseng Supplement

The U.S. FDA found pesticides in Root to Health, American Ginseng, Herbal Supplement (500 Veggie Capsules, 500 mg each) according to a May 13, 2011 Warning Letter from the FDA to the manufacturer of the product, Hsu's Ginseng Enterprises, Inc.

News Release

April 26, 2006

ConsumerLab.com tests cancer-prevention supplements; several contaminated with lead or low in ingredient — Report available for green tea, selenium, and lycopene supplements

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NEW YORK — APRIL 26, 2006 ConsumerLab.com announced results today from its new Product Review of Supplements for Cancer Prevention covering 22 products. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S.

Recalls & Warnings

February 22, 2024

Pacific BioLogic Co. Warned by FDA for Manufacturing Violations

On December 21, 2023, the FDA issued a Warning Letter to Curtis Jacquot, dba Pacific BioLogic Co.

Recalls & Warnings

March 30, 2019

FDA Warns Seller of Reishi, Joint Supplements, Ginseng & More for Pesticides, Other Violations

On March 12, 2019, the FDA issued a warning letter to Yanqing "Michael" Li and Chang Su, owners of the website http://www.woohoonatural.

News Release

January 25, 2006

Sexual enhancement supplements analyzed by Consumerlab.com

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NEW YORK — JANUARY 25, 2006 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that it found only six out of eleven supplements used for sexual enhancement to contain key ingredients listed on their labels and meet other quality criteria.

News Release

August 31, 2005

ConsumerLab.com testing of alpha lipoic acid supplements from Japan finds no ingredient in one product; Most others meet claims — Japanese consumers urged to research product quality

WHITE PLAINS, NY — ConsumerLab.com reported this week that among nine brands of alpha lipoic acid supplements it recently purchased in Japan and tested, one contained none of the popular ingredient and another contained only 81%.

News Release

June 20, 2005

Quality problems widespread among ginseng products sold in Japan. — Nearly two-thirds of products fail ConsumerLab.com testing due to pesticide contamination and missing or substandard ingredients

WHITE PLAINS, NY — JUNE 20, 2005 — Among 14 brands of ginseng dietary supplements recently purchased in Japan and tested by ConsumerLab.com, only 5 products passed independent testing by ConsumerLab.com.

News Release

May 10, 2005

ConsumerLab.com begins publishing test reports on Japanese vitamins and supplements — Review of CoQ10 products Now Available Online in Japanese at ConsumerLab.jp. More Reports Scheduled

— Review of CoQ10 Products Now Available Online in Japanese at ConsumerLab.jp. More Reports Scheduled — WHITE PLAINS, NY — MAY 10, 2005 — ConsumerLab.

News Release

December 14, 2004

ConsumerLab.com expands testing to Japan — Testing Organization Expands to Help Japanese Consumers Determine Quality of Health and Nutrition Products

WHITE PLAINS, NY — Tuesday, December 14, 2004 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that it would begin testing products sold in Japan. Its first report is due out in early spring. In the U.S. and Canada, ConsumerLab.

News Release

August 28, 2003

Some problems persist with ginseng supplements but overall quality improves according to ConsumerLab.com — Test results published online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — August 28, 2003 — In contrast to its testing three years ago in which nearly 60% of Asian and American Ginseng supplements were found to have significant problems, testing of recently purchased products by ConsumerLab.

News Release

July 31, 2003

ConsumerLab.com finds many cholesterol-lowering supplements poorly made — Test results published online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 31, 2003 — ConsumerLab.com reported today that more than half of the cholesterol-lowering supplements that it recently purchased failed to contain their listed ingredients and/or could not adequately break apart to release their contents.

News Release

June 10, 2003

ConsumerLab.com finds lead in coral calcium product; Product also charged with false advertising by FTC — Calcium supplement product review published online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — June 10, 2003 — (Updated August 8) — ConsumerLab.com today reported finding problems among the calcium products recently tested in its Product Review of Calcium Supplements.

News Release

July 10, 2002

Pharmavite dietary supplements receive ConsumerLab.com approval — Vitamin E, SAM-e, St. John's Wort, Ginkgo and others merit approved quality products ranking

WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 10, 2002 — ConsumerLab.

Recalls & Warnings

December 15, 2020

Mushroom Supplement Seller Warned for Drug Claims

On December 4, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Desert Alchemist LLC following a review of the company's website, social media, and Etsy.com store (www.etsy.

Recalls & Warnings

October 08, 2019

Seller of Tea, Colloidal Silver, Homeopathic Products Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On September 12, 2019, the FDA issued a warning letter to Herbal Healer Academy, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

July 23, 2019

FDA Warns Seller of CBD Lotions, Patches, Tinctures and Pet Products

On July 22, 2019, the FDA issued a warning letter to Curaleaf, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

July 16, 2019

FDA Warns Seller of Magnesium and CBD

On July 9, 2019, the FDA issued a warning letter to Ceba-Tek, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

August 20, 2019

Seller of Liposomal Curcumin, Vitamin C & Melatonin Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On August 6, 2019, the FDA issued a warning letter to Let's Talk Health, Inc.

News Release

February 08, 2002

Athletic Banned Substances Screening and Certification Program announced by ConsumerLab.com — Tester of supplements to screen for substances banned in Olympics

WHITE PLAINS, NY — February 8, 2002 — ConsumerLab.

Recalls & Warnings

December 19, 2020

FDA Finds Unapproved Drugs in Many Weight Loss and Sexual Enhancement Products Sold Online

On December 18, 2020, the FDA warned consumers that certain products promoted for weight loss, body building, sexual enhancement, pain relief, sleep, and other uses because may contain harmful ingredients.

Recalls & Warnings

August 30, 2012

FDA Warns of Medical Claims Made For Numerous Chinese Herbal Products

On August 15, 2012, the FDA warned Dragon Herbs that promotional statements made on the company's website constitute drug claims for twenty herbal products, including CardioPro 2000, Cordyceps, Duanwood Reishi, Gynostemma, Ginseng and Astragalus Combination, Dang Gui and Gelatin, Sweet Relief, ...

Recalls & Warnings

January 16, 2014

Seller of Tea Supplements and Drinks Warned For Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On December 31, 2013, the FDA issued a warning to Prestige Chinese Teas Company, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

June 02, 2018

FDA Warns Seller of Cough Suppressant & Grape Seed Supplements

On March 29, 2018, the FDA issued a warning letter to Yoder's Good Health Products following a facility inspection which found a number of the company's products, including Respiratory & Cough Formula and Life Drops to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or ...

Recalls & Warnings

December 05, 2014

Maker of Ginseng, Zinc, Calcium and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On November 20, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Long Island Pharmaceuticals, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's products to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held under conditions that violate Current Good Manufacturing Practices for dietary ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 19, 2014

Seller of Sexual Enhancement Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations

On February 11, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Maximus Niterider International Group, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

January 11, 2013

Consumers May Be Eligible For Cold, Allergy and Weight Loss Supplement Refunds

On January 7, 2013, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that consumers who purchased the Iovate Health dietary supplements Accelis, nanoSLIM, Cold MD, Germ MD, or Allergy MD between January 2006 and July 2010 may qualify for a refund.

Recalls & Warnings

December 26, 2012

Seller of Blood Sugar, Depression and Sleep Supplements Warned For Making Drug Claims

On October 15, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to BioNeurix Corporation after statements found on the company's website, http://www.pharma-tree.com, were found to promote the dietary supplements Blood Sugar 360, Amoryn, Seredyn, and Mellodyn as drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

January 21, 2014

"Stem Cell" Supplement Recalled Due to Allergen Risk

On January 19, 2014, Stemvida recalled StemAlive 90 Capsules because they were found to contain undeclared milk (labeled as bovine colostrum).

Recalls & Warnings

December 16, 2013

Weight Loss Capsules Recalled Due Allergen Risk

On December 13, 2013, Stone Independent Research, Inc. issued recall of one lot of Zanocap Scientific Weight Loss 500 mg capsules because they contain undeclared whey protein, which is derived from milk.

Recalls & Warnings

January 04, 2015

Sexual Enhancement Supplement Recalled

On December 30, 2014, Vivo Brand Management (Canada) issued a recall of one lot of the sexual enhancement supplement Forta for Men, because it was found to contain undeclared homosildenafil.

Recalls & Warnings

April 04, 2013

FDA Warns Consumers Of Weight Loss Supplement Containing Undeclared Drug

On April 4, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use the dietary supplement MAXILOSS Weight Advanced Blue because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

February 25, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled Due To Undeclared Drug

On February 21, 2013, Olaax Corp. issued a voluntary, nationwide recall of the company's weight loss supplement MAXILOSS Weight Advanced softgels because they were found to contain undeclared Sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

August 06, 2016

Some Supplements May Cause or Exacerbate Heart Failure (Includes vitamin E and many herbs)

Taking certain supplements may be dangerous for people with heart failure, according to a statement from the American Heart Association (AHA) which was published in the journal Circulation (August 2, 2016). 

Recalls & Warnings

July 29, 2017

Increase in Calls to Poison Control Centers About Supplements

The number of calls to poison control centers in the U.S. about dietary supplement exposures increased by almost 50% between 2005 and 2012, according to a study published this week in the Journal of Medical Toxicology.

Recalls & Warnings

May 06, 2015

Joint Pain Supplements Found to Contain Diuretics, Antihistamines and Other Undeclared Drugs

On May 4, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the following supplements promoted for joint or back pain because they were found to contain undeclared drugs. Each was identified during an examination of international mail shipments.  

Recalls & Warnings

June 07, 2013

Seller of Red Rice Yeast With CoQ10, Respiratory Supplement And More Warned For Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On February 25, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Altasource, LLC, dba Meta Labs LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's dietary supplements, including Respiratory Response, African Mango, Coffee Black Salve, Meta-Cell, Conjugated Linoleic Acid and Red Yeast Rice with ...

Recalls & Warnings

June 20, 2003

Mixing Herbal Supplements, Migraine Medications Can Be Dangerous

On June 19, 2003, ABC News reported than an extensive review of existing research has led University of Utah researchers to conclude several popular herbal supplements may cause adverse, even deadly, reactions when combined with certain migraine medications.

Recalls & Warnings

October 21, 2014

Seller of Weight Loss, Saw Palmetto Supplements and More Warned for Drug Claims

On October 9, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bethel Nutritional Consulting, Inc., following a review of the company's website which found statements made about 15 Day Detox Diet, Alpha Lipoic Acid. 300 mg.

News Release

January 08, 2002

ConsumerLab.com finds most B vitamin supplements contain what they claim, but often exceed safe levels — Consumers cautioned to be aware of side effects with high dose products

WHITE PLAINS, NY — January 8, 2002 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that all but one of the twenty-one products analyzed in its B Vitamin Product Review contained the claimed amounts of B vitamins.

News Release

November 20, 2001

ConsumerLab.com finds fish oil supplements free of mercury, but 30% lacking in key ingredient — Test results of omega-3 fatty acid (EPA and DHA) products released today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — November 20, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, released results today of its Product Review of Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA) from Fish/Marine Oils.

Recalls & Warnings

February 03, 2015

Major Retailers Accused of Selling Adulterated Herbal Supplements

On February 3, 2015, the New York State Attorney General announced that his office sent letters to four major retailers, GNC, Target, Walmart, and Walgreens, for allegedly selling store brand herbal supplement products in New York that either could not be verified to contain the labeled substance, ...

Recalls & Warnings

May 14, 2014

Maker of Mood, Smoking Cessation Supplements and More Warned for Violations, Drug Claims

On April 17, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to CDJ Holding, Incorporated, d.b.a.

Recalls & Warnings

July 25, 2013

Beware of Dietary Supplements With Claims To Treat Diabetes, FDA Warns

On July 23, 2013, the FDA issued a warning to consumers not to buy or use dietary supplements that are promoted to treat diabetes.

Recalls & Warnings

March 15, 2013

Maker of Liquid Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On January 31, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Liquid Health, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

May 17, 2013

Hoodia, Sexual Enhancement Supplements and More Found To Be Adulterated, Misbranded

On March 01, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Desert Rose Manufacturing, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

May 10, 2013

Seller Of Sexual Enhancement and Hormonal Balance Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations

On April 26, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Pristine Bay, L.L.C.

Recalls & Warnings

September 03, 2013

Sexual Enhancement Supplements Containing Undeclared Drug Recalled

On August 27, 2013, Hardmenstore.com issued a voluntary recall of sexual enhancement supplements 72HP, Evil Root and Pro Power Max because they were found to contain undeclared sildenafil.

Recalls & Warnings

November 11, 2015

Consuming a Single Energy Drink May Increase Cardiovascular Risk

A recently published study found that consumption of a single caffeinated energy drink significantly increased blood pressure and noradrenaline levels in healthy young adults. The researchers noted these changes could potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular events.

Recalls & Warnings

May 15, 2016

Sexual Enhancement Supplements Recalled

On May 10, 2016, SOS Telecom, Inc. issued a recall of the following sexual enhancement supplements, which were found to contain undeclared sildenafil:

Recalls & Warnings

February 27, 2016

Enhancement Supplement Contains Undeclared Drug

The FDA recently warned consumers not to buy or use the sexual enhancement supplement Neophase Natural Sex Enhancer because it was found to contain hydroxyacetildenafil. 

Recalls & Warnings

February 04, 2017

FDA Warns Four Sexual Enhancement Supplements Contain Prescription Drug

The FDA recently warned consumers not to buy or use the following sexual enhancement supplements because they were found to contain undeclared sildenafil.

Recalls & Warnings

May 03, 2002

More Information on Recall of PC-SPES - Prostate Supplement

The FDA's May 1, 2002 Enforcement Report classified the recall of PC-SPES as a Class I recall. The recall was originally announced by its manufacturer in February with additional warnings from the FDA issued in March (see the 3/11/02 posting on ConsumerLab.

News Release

October 30, 2001

Sixty percent of nutrition bars fail to meet claims in ConsumerLab.com tests — "Low Carb" bars often loaded with carbohydrates; excess sodium and saturated fat also found

WHITE PLAINS, NY — October 30, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, released results today of its Nutrition Bar Product Review.

News Release

October 03, 2001

Most iron supplements pass ConsumerLab.com testing — Lead contamination and insufficient iron found in some

WHITE PLAINS, NY — October 3, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, released results today of its Product Review of Iron Supplements. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia in the U.S. and worldwide.

News Release

August 15, 2001

Problems and ambiguity among alternative estrogen products reported by ConsumerLab.com — Results of soy and red clover isoflavone product testing released online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — August 15, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, today released results of its Phytoestrogen Product Review. The review focused on dietary supplements made from soy and red clover isoflavones.

News Release

July 09, 2001

Many herbal sleep products lack key claimed ingredient — Results of ConsumerLab.com's testing of valerian products released on web today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 9, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, today released results of its Product Review of valerian supplements — used primarily as sleep aids and minor tranquilizers.

News Release

June 04, 2001

ConsumerLab.com reports test results of arthritis supplement — MSM; Quality found higher than for most supplements, but room for improvement remains

WHITE PLAINS, NY — June 4, 2001 — ConsumerLab.

News Release

May 07, 2001

Over forty percent of Echinacea products fail ConsumerLab.com review; Inadequate labeling and missing ingredients found common for popular herbal cold remedy

WHITE PLAINS, NY — May 7, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, today released results of its Product Review of echinacea supplements.

News Release

April 10, 2001

Quality of popular herbal anti-depressant found to vary; certain types of St. John's Wort supplements more likely to pass testing

White Plains, NY — April 11, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com, an independent evaluator of dietary supplements and nutrition products, today released results of its Product Review of St. John's wort supplements.

News Release

March 27, 2001

ConsumerLab.com expands testing of health products; success of dietary supplement evaluations leads company into broader nutrition field, beginning with popular nutrition bars

WHITE PLAINS, NY — March 27, 2001 — Having established its presence as the leading independent evaluator of the quality of dietary supplements sold in the U.S, ConsumerLab.com announced today the expansion of its work to include foods and food ingredients.

News Release

March 13, 2001

ConsumerLab.com review of vitamin E supplements finds some insufficiencies and need for clearer labeling; test results released online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — March 13, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com today released results of its Product Review of vitamin E products. Vitamin E is one of the most popular dietary supplements in the U.S.

News Release

February 14, 2001

Problems found with multivitamins and multiminerals by ConsumerLab.com

WHITE PLAINS, NY — February 14, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that only 14 of 27 products evaluated in its Multivitamin and Multimineral Product Review achieved full "CL Approved Quality" status.

News Release

January 29, 2001

Some supplements for arthritis may exceed newly released safe intake levels for manganese

WHITE PLAINS, NY — January 29, 2001 — ConsumerLab.com issued an alert today to its online readers that that some glucosamine and chondroitin products (popularly used for osteoarthritis), exceed newly established upper intake levels for manganese.

News Release

November 21, 2000

ConsumerLab.com tests popular supplement for heart failure; CoQ10 test results released online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY — November 21, 2000 — ConsumerLab.com today released results of its 10th Product Review, focusing on dietary supplements containing coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).

News Release

September 06, 2000

ConsumerLab.com finds new calcium products of higher quality than many traditional supplements; Test results released online today

WHITE PLAINS, NY, September 6, 2000 — ConsumerLab.com today released results of its 9th Product Review, focusing on dietary supplements and products providing calcium. One of the most commonly purchased supplements in the U.S.

News Release

August 07, 2000

ConsumerLab.com finds that not all creatine supplements meet label claims; Popular sports supplement test results released online

WHITE PLAINS, NY, August 7, 2000 — ConsumerLab.com today released results of its 8th Product Review, focusing on creatine monohydrate dietary supplements.

News Release

July 11, 2000

Pesticide contamination found in many Ginseng supplements tested by ConsumerLab.com

WHITE PLAINS, NY, July 11, 2000 — Out of 22 brands of ginseng dietary supplements evaluated by ConsumerLab.com eight were found to contain high levels of specific pesticides, some of which also contained significant levels of lead.

News Release

May 17, 2000

ConsumerLab.com test of vitamin C products identifies quality control issues and misuse of USP claim.

WHITE PLAINS, NY, May 17, 2000 — Testing of 26 brands of vitamin C dietary supplements indicated that fifteen percent either did not contain all of the claimed ingredient or failed to breakdown as needed for absorption in the body.

News Release

April 24, 2000

ConsumerLab.com announces first test-based buyer's guide to dietary supplements; Manufacturers encouraged to have products tested for potential inclusion.

WHITE PLAINS, NY, April 24, 2000 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that it is developing the first consumer guide to dietary supplements to be based on comprehensive independent laboratory testing of popular supplements sold in the U.S. The ConsumerLab.

News Release

January 31, 2000

Quality of prostate supplements get mixed review in ConsumerLab.com study; Saw palmetto product review published online today.

WHITE PLAINS, NY, January 31, 2000 — Out of 27 major brands of dietary supplements purporting to contain saw palmetto for treating symptoms of prostate enlargement, only 17 appeared to have ingredients similar to those found in published clinical studies.

Recalls & Warnings

February 13, 2016

FDA Warns Nine Sexual Enhancement Supplements Contain Undeclared Drugs

The FDA recently warned consumers not to buy or use the following sexual enhancement supplements, which are sold on various websites and in some retail stores, because they were found to contain undeclared drugs: 

Recalls & Warnings

August 16, 2013

Ginkgo, Milk Thistle, Cleanse and Nopal Supplement Maker Warned For Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On July 23, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Natural Products Services, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

April 04, 2013

Three More Sexual Enhancement Supplements Found To Contain Undeclared Drugs

On April 3, 2013, the FDA warned consumers that the sexual enhancement supplements AFFIRM XL, Love Rider and Ninja Mojo were found to contain undeclared erectile dysfunction drugs. Consumers are urged to stop using these supplements immediately.

News Release

January 24, 2000

Majority of dietary supplements sold in U.S. being tested by ConsumerLab.com in 2000; newest results due January 31 for Saw Palmetto.

WHITE PLAINS, NY, January 24, 2000 — As part of its ongoing independent evaluation of health, wellness, and nutrition products sold in the U.S., ConsumerLab.com announced that by year-end it is to have independently tested most of the popular brands of dietary supplements sold in the U.S.