Article: Herbal teas: are they folk medicine or witches' brew?

Herbal teas conjure up images of health and tranquility, stomach aches soothed, respiratory ailments relieved, insomnia kept at bay. But herbal teas have their dark side, some causing allergic reactions, liver damage, and even death. Such incidents may be on the rise as herbal teas become more popular and manufacturers lure new customers with hints of miracleworking potions.

Traditional Medicinals of Sebastopol, California, claims, for example, that its Smoker's Tea is a "natural herbal smoking deterrent which is useful as an aid to stop smoking." But Smoker's Tea contains 1obelia, which can cause breathing problems, vomiting, convulsions, even coma and death ...

Related newspaper, magazine, and journal articles:

 
 
Newsweek Harper's Magazine The Washington Post Chicago Tribune Crain's Chicago Business PRNewswire Pediatric News The Nation Advertising Age The Economist (US) A FREE trial gives you access to over 80 million articles! Access over 6,500 publications with a FREE trial!