Though herbal supplements are no more dangerous than pharmaceutical drugs, they’re largely unregulated and can be harmful when misused. Some require special caution: ..MR0-

(Lobelia inflata)

WHAT IT DOES: It once was approved by the FDA as a smoking deterrent and is now used in some herbal formulas to aid digestion and ease muscle spasms.

POSSIBLE DANGERS: its effect on the nervous system is similar to but milder than nicotine’s. Though overdoses are rare since taking large quantities induces vomiting, it can depress breathing and cause rapid heart rate, even coma and death.

(Symphytum officinale)

WHAT IT DOES: The root was originally used topically to reduce swelling around broken bones. Some users take it orally to treat arthritis, gout and infections.

POSSIBLE DANGERS: Contains alkaloids that can damage the liver when taken orally. Associated with at least seven cases of liver damage.

(Teucrium chamaedrys)

WHAT IT DOES: Though seldom sold in the United States, it used to be a common ingredient in medicinal teas, elixirs and diet pills in Europe.

POSSIBLE DANGERS: A French study linked it to at least 27 cases of liver disease dating back to 1986. One victim died.

(Mentha pulegium)

WHAT IT DOES: Used to treat coughs and menstrual symptoms and to induce abortion.

POSSIBLE DANGERS: Pennyroyal leaves have relatively mild effects, but the concentrated oil used to induce abortion is highly toxic. Two years ago, a 24-year-old woman with an ectopic pregnancy died after taking the extract to induce an abortion.

(Tussilago farfara)

WHAT IT DOES: This leaf is used in tea and contains large quantities of vitamin C. It is commonly used to stop coughing and fight respiratory infections.

POSSIBLE DANGERS: In Japanese studies, high concentrations caused cancerous liver tumors in rats. It is banned in Canada, though it is still common in Europe.

(Larrea indentata)

WHAT IT DOES: Though no longer widely used, this evergreen desert shrub is reputed to slow aging, treat skin disorders, alleviate arthritis and prevent cancer.

POSSIBLE DANGERS: In 1992, the FDA warned that internal use could cause liver damage. At least six cases of acute hepatitis have been linked to consumption of the herb.

(Sassafras allyidum)

WHAT IT DOES: Native Americans used the root of the sassafras tree for medicinal purposes. The FDA banned it as a food additive in 1970, but some still use it to make tea.

POSSIBLE DANGERS: The FDA and surgeon general have warned it can damage the liver. It also contains safrole, a chemical that has caused cancer in lab animals.

(Cassia acutifolia)

WHAT IT DOES: A strong stimulant laxative often consumed as a diet tea. Approved by the FDA as safe when properly labeled.

POSSIBLE DANGERS: Long-term use may rob the body of vital electrolytes, leading to cardiac arrhythmia. Senna tea is allegedly responsible for four deaths.

(Corynanthe yohimbe)

WHAT IT DOES: Tree bark marketed for body-building and male sexual performance.

POSSIBLE DANGERS: Its major alkaloid ingredient raises blood pressure and can cause nervousness and fatigue at high doses. The FDA has received reports associating it with seizures and several deaths.

(Ephedra sinica)

WHAT IT DOES: Also known as ma huang, it’s used to control weight, boost energy and create a high.

POSSIBLE DANGERS: The FDA has received some 400 reports of adverse reactions, including liver failure, elevated blood pressure, palpitations, strokes and approximately 15 deaths, all resulting from chronic use or overdose. Some ephedra-based products contain caffeine, which raises the potential for harmful effects.