In the United States, dietary supplements are under minimal regulation from the FDA. Supplements must be taken orally, and are classified as foods under the FDA's system. Thus, there is no preapproval process or testing by the FDA before a product hits the shelves. By law, the labeling of a nutritional supplement cannot claim to prevent, treat, or cure any disease.

This administrative caution does not dissuade many people from taking supplements, as traditional and folk remedies are sold as supplements. This includes vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements. People who take herbal nutritional supplements often do so either as a regular part of the diet, or in response to specific symptoms.

Some Popular Herbal Supplements

One of the most well-known herbs is from the purple coneflower, Echinacea purpurea. Commonly sold simply as echinacea, the herb is believed to bolster the immune system. Many people take echinacea regularly to stave off sickness; others save the herb for when they need a good immune boost. Other popular herbal supplements include ginseng for higher energy, ginko biloba for improved memory, and St. John's wort to fight depression.

By law, nutritional supplements must be taken by mouth. Most herbs are available in pill form, but are also found in teas. In addition, many popular diet drinks, energy beverages, and health-oriented soft drinks contain doses of these herbal supplements. Furthermore, many herbal treatments come in oils and compresses which do not technically count as supplements. Pills and powders tend to be the easiest forms to incorporate into a daily routine, making them both effective options.