Preface

Herbal supplements are available without prescription in many countries throughout the world and account for more than US$30 billion in sales. A majority of the US popu-lation (25–40%) use herbal supplements and alternative medicines are major forms of therapy in Third World countries, used by as much as 80% of the population. Contrary to the popular belief that herbal remedies are safe and effective, many herbal supplements have known toxicity and unexpected laboratory test results may be early indications of such toxicity. In addition, some herbal products such as St. John’s wort can interact with many Western drugs, causing increased clearance of such drugs and hence treat-ment failure. This monograph provides information on how herbal supplements affect laboratory test results and thus patient safety. This book is a comprehensive and concise practical guide for laboratory professionals, physicians and other healthcare profession-als. The emphasis is on providing clinically relevant information rather than discussing mechanisms of such effects in detail, although brief explanations are provided for some unexpected test results.

Amitava DasguptaHouston, Texas, USA

Brought to you by | National Chung Hsing UniversityAuthenticated | 140.120.135.222Download Date | 3/29/14 3:00 PM

Brought to you by | National Chung Hsing UniversityAuthenticated | 140.120.135.222Download Date | 3/29/14 3:00 PM