- New research has found that six herbal supplements that are popular on TikTok may cause liver damage.
- Researchers at the University of Michigan concluded that supplements, including Ashwagandha, Green Tea Extract, and Garcinia cambogia, may be hepatoxic.
- However, experts say in most cases, these risks only occur if you’re taking high doses of these supplements.
- It’s best to do your research before adding any supplement to your health and wellness routine.
Numerous users on social media platforms like TikTok have espoused the benefits of herbal supplements, leading to a surge in their popularity.
However, a new study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan found that six popular herbal supplements, including green tea extract, turmeric, and ashwagandha, are linked to liver risks.
Furthermore, the researchers estimated that 15.6 million U.S. adults have taken at least one herbal supplement in the last 30 days that might be hepatotoxic or damaging to their liver.
Healthline spoke with experts to help clarify what you need to know about the reported benefits and potential risks to your liver that have been linked with these six popular herbal supplements.
Ashwagandha
“Ashwagandha can help reduce serum cortisol levels, which can lead to people getting better, more restful sleep,” says Pedram Kordrostami, MD, founder and CEO of supplement company Omre.
“Ashwagandha’s ability to calm the brain is mostly due to the compounds it contains. Considered an adaptogen, ashwagandha is a kind of herb that, when consumed, helps the body deal with stress,” he explains.
Kordrostami says the benefits will be more pronounced in people who experience insomnia.
As for the potential risks to your liver?
Kordrostami says it’s rare, but the effects can range from mild to moderate.
Severe liver injury has been reported by some who have used ashwagandha. In other cases, symptoms arose and then resolved after the supplement was stopped.
He says people need to be wary of commercially available herbal supplements marketed as only containing ashwagandha.
“These supplements usually are a mixture of multiple different herbs and nutritional products, which are often mislabeled,” he explains.
Black cohosh
Black cohosh is a plant native to North America that has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes.
Samael Tejada, a functional medicine expert and founder of Liquivida, says its potential benefits include managing symptoms associated with menopause and hormonal imbalances and reducing hot flashes, night sweats, changes in mood, and sleep disturbances.
It’s also used to manage menstrual cycles and alleviate PMS symptoms.
“Several case reports have linked black cohosh use to liver damage, including cases of hepatitis and liver failure, necessitating liver transplants,” Tejada notes.
Risks include jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, and acute hepatitis.
“The cause is not entirely understood but may involve individual susceptibility, dosage, duration of use, or contamination of supplements. Women with a history of liver disorders should be particularly cautious,” he warns.
Garcinia cambogia
Garcinia cambogia is a tropical fruit that is commonly used as a weight loss supplement.
Tegada says it contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which is believed to help suppress appetite and block an enzyme in the body used to produce fat.
“It’s known for potential weight loss benefits, improved cholesterol levels, reduced appetite, increased stamina, and reduced fatigue, making it popular among athletes,” he explains.
However, the potential liver risks may outweigh the benefits.
“Reports of acute liver failure and hepatitis-like symptoms have been associated with Garcinia cambogia, often in individuals who combine it with other weight loss supplements,” Tejada notes.
“Severe cases can lead to the need for liver transplantation, possibly related to the supplement’s chemical properties or interactions with other supplements.”
Green tea extract
Green tea extract is derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and is rich in antioxidants known as catechins.
Tejada says its high anti-oxidant content helps combat oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
“It’s believed to improve metabolism and aid in weight loss, improve brain function, including memory loss and focus, reduce cholesterol levels, and may have potential anticancer properties for certain cancers,” he notes.
As for liver risks, Tejada says risks include liver toxicity, hepatitis, and liver failure, with toxicity believed to be dose-dependent and possibly due to excessive accumulation of catechins in the liver, leading to oxidative damage and inflammation.
Red yeast rice
Red yeast rice is a traditional Chinese medicine made by fermenting rice with a type of yeast called Monascus purpureus.
“It contains compounds known as monacolins, which are similar to statins and may help lower cholesterol levels,” Tejada explains. “It may also improve heart health and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Some studies suggest it also has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.”
But there are risks.
“Red yeast rice may cause elevated liver enzymes, liver inflammation, and, in rare cases, acute liver failure,” Tejada notes. “The risk increases with higher doses and prolonged use, especially when combined with other statins or hepatotoxic drugs.”
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These properties can help with conditions like arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.
“Turmeric’s antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress,” Tejada explains. “It also supports digestive health, is believed to enhance cognitive function, and even potentially reduce the risk of certain cancers.”
However, he says high doses of turmeric supplements have been associated with liver toxicity, leading to elevated liver enzymes and, in rare cases, liver damage.
Takeaway
A new study from researchers at the University of Michigan found that six popular herbal supplements that have soared in popularity due to content on TikTok can pose risks to your liver.
The herbal supplements studied included ashwagandha, turmeric, red yeast rice, green tea extract, garcinia cambogia, and black cohosh.
Health experts warn that just because an herbal supplement is popular or “natural” doesn’t mean it’s without risk.
If you are taking supplements, it’s important to ensure you’re taking the correct dose to avoid liver damage.
It’s also a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before you begin taking any herbal supplement.
