A nurse is educating a patient on herbal supplements. Which statement best explains a consideration patients should be aware of?

Rationale: A. Natural does not automatically mean safe. Some herbal supplements can have strong pharmacologic effects, cause adverse reactions, or interact with medications. Assuming safety based solely on being “natural” is a common misconception. B. Many herbal products can alter the effectiveness or safety of prescription medications. For example, St. John’s Wort can reduce the effectiveness of certain antidepressants, anticoagulants, or birth control pills. Ginkgo biloba may increase bleeding risk when taken with anticoagulants. Patients must be educated to inform their healthcare providers about all supplements they take. C. Some herbal supplements do have evidence supporting specific uses, such as ginger for nausea or peppermint for irritable bowel syndrome, though evidence quality varies. Blanket statements that they have no benefits are misleading. D. While herbal supplements are less strictly regulated than prescription drugs, proper dosage is still important. Overuse or misuse can lead to adverse effects or toxicity.