Consumer Reports' 'Dirty Dozen': 12 Risky Supplements
Consumer Reports lists the products that may do more harm than good.
Aug. 3, 2010— -- Last year, Americans spent nearly $27 billion on dietary supplements -- but critics say some of them could be risky.
On "Good Morning America," ABC News senior health and medical editor Dr. Richard Besser discussed the "dirty dozen" supplement ingredients list released by Consumer Reports.
While the products on the list may not be the top sellers in the category, they are both popular and readily available on health store aisles.
To learn whether you may be taking one or more of these "dirty dozen" products, have a look at CR's list below. And if you have any questions about the supplements you may be taking, remember to talk openly and honestly with your doctor. Your health may be at stake.
1. Aconite
Other names: aconiti tuber, aconitum, radix aconiti
Purported uses: Inflammation, joint pain, wounds, gout
Possible risks: Toxicity, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, respiratory system paralysis, heart rhythm disorders, death
2. Bitter Orange
Other names: aurantii fructus, citrus aurantium, zhi shi
Purported uses: Weight loss, nasal congestion, allergies
Possible risks: Fainting, heart-rhythm disorders, heart attack, stroke, death
3. Chaparral
Other names: creosote bush, larrea divaricata, larreastat
Purported uses: Colds, weight loss, infections, inflammation, cancer, detoxification
Possible risks: Liver damage, kidney problems
4. Colloidal Silver
Other names: ionic silver, native silver, silver in suspending agent
Purported uses: Fungal and other infections, Lyme disease, rosacea, psoriasis, food poisoning, chronic fatigue syndrome, HIV/AIDS
Possible risks: Bluish skin, mucous membrane discoloration, neurological problems, kidney damage
5. Coltsfoot
Other names: coughwort, farfarae folium leaf, foalswort
Purported uses: Cough, sore throat, laryngitis, bronchitis, asthma
Possible risks: Liver damage, cancer
