Yes.
But it isn't very likely. A few people die each year in the US from over-the-counter supplements. Over a 20-year period in the US, 230 deaths were reported to the government due to supplements. It is often suggested that this number is low, and it surely is because most people wouldn't think to report a supplement and the hospitals aren't prepared to test for the presence of all of the possible supplements.
Yet the number of real deaths, whatever it is, is small compared to the hundreds of thousands of people who die in the US each year from conventional medical treatments and pharmaceuticals.
Herbs are not without risk
There is harm done by herbs and supplements that may not result in death. Since 1983, the American Association of Poison Control Centers has kept statistics on poisonings from every type of substance, including dietary supplements. In 1983, there were 14,006 reports related to the use of vitamins, minerals, essential oils and homeopathic remedies. Herbs were not included during the early years of the statistics. During 2005, 125,595 incidents were reported related to vitamins, minerals, essential oils, herbs and other supplements. Over the 23-year period, the US state and local poison centers received more than 1.6 million reports of adverse reactions to such products, including 251,799 that were serious enough to require hospitalization.
Treat herbs and supplements as serious medicines and discuss their use with your health care provider. Almost every herb has contraindications for various health conditions and may interfere with pharmaceuticals. Herbs and supplements from reputable companies are an economic tool for maintaining our health but they should be used consciously and carefully.
Please note: The information here is not to be followed as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with your physician or primary health practitioner for information regarding your own personal health and necessary treatments.
