Author(s):
The use of herbal natural products and food supplements by athletes has generated a global concern in the last decades. Studies have shown that some herbs are used to enhance muscle strength and body mass and that the health benefits from plants are associated to their bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, terpenoids, and alkaloids which have varying physiological effects on the human body. More pharma companies are launching numerous products with prohibited active metabolites or fake supplement that can induce harmful side effect and potential drug-herbal interactions. So far, there is no assurance of confidence of safety (COS) for use in competitive sports. Although some food supplements herbal products are similar, clinical testing and understanding of most herbal natural remedies is lacking. Some herbal products have proven useful in an athletic setting; however, current United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations do not ensure safe and effective products. A descriptive review focusing on specific considerations for the athletic trainer is provided.
Conclusions/Recommendations: Despite their increasing tendency to seek natural therapies, athletes need to be aware that ‘‘natural’’ does not equal ‘‘safe.’’ Athletes are entitled to know that most herbs are not proven safe or effective under current FDA standards. The athletic trainer must be able to provide honest, unbiased information when educating athletes regarding herbal supplements.
We use a data mining approach to source information and data Sources through online search on MEDLINE/PUBMED, SPORT Discus, CINAHL, and Academic Search Elite databases 1990–2023 using the key words herbals, regulation, supplements, toxicity, and adulteration. The objective of this project review was to examine common herbal supplements, explore potential risks associated with herbal use, and provide recommendations to the athletes regarding health risk associated with herbal products and supplements. This paper also attempts to provide guidance on the efficacy and side effect of most used plants in sport.
