Herb Pharm Lemon Balm
Brand: Herb Pharm · Form: LIQUID, SUPPLEMENT FORM [E0165] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is critical for bone health, but it is not a casual supplement. Our assessment is that you should approach calcium with caution, as the data reveals significant risks alongside the benefits. High calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your skeleton and a signal regulator for your nerves. It supports bone density and mineral deposition through bone mineralization, and it promotes muscle relaxation and nerve signaling through neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592059 total adverse event reports across all supplements, though specific report counts for calcium alone are not available. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS] [FDA data]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Do not take calcium supplements without first assessing your dietary intake and talking to your doctor. The risks are serious, and the data does not provide a safe starting dose for general use. Get your calcium levels checked and discuss potential medication interactions before starting [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Herb Pharm |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 2.0 fl. Oz. 60.0 mL |
| Market Status | On Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide