Herb Pharm Andrographis
Brand: Herb Pharm · Form: LIQUID, SUPPLEMENT FORM [E0165]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health and nerve function [NIH ODS]. However, we must be clear: the data provided does not specify the amount of calcium in this specific product or confirm its bioavailability. Our assessment is that you should approach this supplement with caution, as the risks of calcium supplementation are well-documented and must be weighed against your personal dietary intake.
How it works
Calcium acts as a master regulator for your body. It supports bone mineralization, helping to build and maintain bone density [NIH ODS]. It also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, meaning it helps your muscles relax after contracting and supports proper nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Think of calcium as the structural support for your skeleton and a calming signal for your muscles and nerves.
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports related to products in this category [FDA data]. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Very 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]. You should also be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data not available on side effect report counts specifically for calcium from this data set.
Our recommendation
We recommend you do not take this supplement without first consulting your doctor. Because the exact calcium dose is not provided, you risk taking too much, especially if you consume dairy or other fortified foods. A blood test to check your calcium levels is essential. If you need a supplement, choose a standardized dose (e.g., 500-600 mg) and take it with food for better absorption, while keeping your total intake from all sources below the tolerable upper limit [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Herb Pharm |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 4.0 fl. Oz. 118.4 mL |
| Market Status | Off 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