Herb Pharm Sarsaparilla
Brand: Herb Pharm · Form: LIQUID, SUPPLEMENT FORM [E0165]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that while this product is labeled as sarsaparilla, the data provided focuses on calcium as a key ingredient. Our assessment: calcium is essential for bone health and nerve function, but you must be cautious with dosing because high intakes carry significant risks [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder — it supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. This means it helps keep your bones strong and your muscles able to relax properly.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, the data shows that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Data not available for specific dosing of this sarsaparilla product. For calcium specifically, do not exceed the daily recommended intake without medical supervision. If you take any of the listed medications, separate your calcium supplement by at least 2 hours. Start with a low dose and monitor for side effects like constipation or nausea [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Herb Pharm |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 1.0 fl. Oz. 30.0 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