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Natural health products (NHPs) are becoming commonplace in many Canadian homes. About 73% of Canadians use NHPs and many of those individuals are adults over the age of 65 (Health Canada, 2011; Singh & Levine, 2006). NHPs include vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and homeopathic medicines. NHPs are used for many reasons. Some people use them to treat or maintain their health, while others may use them to prevent illness or strengthen their immune system. Although NHPs are often thought to be safer than prescription medications, they’re not risk-free. Some may make misleading or untrue health benefit claims which are not supported by research. Always speak to a health care provider before taking NHPs as they may interact with medications that you’re already taking. The following tables provide a brief summary of NHPs commonly used to treat cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, Cardiovascular Health
Hawthorn May help in treating mild to moderate dizziness, gastrointestinal upset, headaches or migraines, anti-hypertensives, and exercise capacity, and reduce symptoms and heart palpitations.
NHPs are often made of several ingredients that may impact your health. To find information on a NHP, visit the Licensed Natural Health Products Database www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/prodnatur/index-eng.php.
You can also find information on each ingredient in a NHP on the Health Canada website www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/prodnatur/applications/
online-enligne/nhpid-bipsn-eng.php.
Diabetes
fenugreek May improve blood glucose levels for those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
gymnema May decrease blood glucose levels for those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
sweetness and increase the ability lowering drugs.
Mental Health
identify specific health benefits headaches, spontaneous s-adenosylmethionine May reduce symptoms of * The list of adverse reactions and drug interactions are those most commonly experienced by individuals. This list is not complete. Please seek advice from a health care provider for detailed information as it relates to you. NHPs may be beneficial in managing your health when used according to the instructions on the label. Like any other medications, NHPs can have possible adverse reactions and drug interactions. Health Canada has Note: If you’re
developed NHP Regulations to ensure that NHPs sold over-the-counter in Canada are safe to use. Look for the Natural Product Number (NPN) or a Drug Identification Number-Homeopathic Medicine (DIN-HM) on the container of a NHP, to ensure that the product has been assessed and Based on limited effectiveness, drug interactions, and possible side effects with the use of NHPs, never self-diagnose or treat yourself with them. Only use NHPs under the guidance of your regulated health care provider. KEY REFERENCES:
Herr, S. M. (2002). Herb-drug interaction handbook (2nd ed.). Nassau, NY: Church Street Books.
Singh, S. R., & Levine, M. A. H. (2006). Natural health product use in Canada: Analysis of the national population health survey. Canadian Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 13(2), e240-e250.
Walji, R. (2011). NHPs in dietetic practice. Proceedings of Dietitians of Canada Coast to Coast Presentation Series. www.workingtowardwellness.ca
Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, February 2013.

Source: http://www.workingtowardwellness.ca/healthy_living/a-time-for-change/CCI_NaturalHealthProducts_Fact%20Sheet_Final_WEB.pdf