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Currently there is a lack of sufficient scientific evidence to recommend the use of herbal products or supplements for the treatment of cancer. The safety of herbal formulations and products is also a major factor that should be taken into consideration by consumers. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) urges consumers to be aware of several important safety issues pertaining to herbal products and supplements, including:

• Do not necessarily assume that just because many of these products are labeled as "natural", that they are completely safe and, therefore, cannot cause potentially serious adverse reactions. If you have any concerns about the possible side-effects of a particular herbal product or supplement, ask a pharmacist or your doctor about possible side-effects or interactions with other medications that you may be taking.

• Women who are pregnant or who are nursing should be especially cautious about using herbal products and supplements since the safety of many of these products has not established for use during pregnancy or lactation.

• Find out as much information as you can about a particular herbal product you are considering before taking it. If you have concerns or questions about a product, speak to a health care professional and get their advice. Moreover, you should always only use these products under the guidance of a health care professional.

• Some herbal products and supplements may interact with other medications that you may be taking and may cause adverse side-effects. Some herbal products may interfere with the action of certain chemotherapeutic agents that are used in the treatment of cancer. It is, therefore, important to notify your doctor about any herbal products you may be using or are considering using in order to prevent or reduce the possibility of adverse herb/drug interactions.