What are natural health products?‘Natural health products’ is a term used to describe herbs and other supplements made from natural sources that are sold to prevent sickness or promote health. There are many different types, including:
- vitamins and minerals;
- herbal remedies;
- homeopathic medicines;
- traditional medicines (traditional Chinese medicine, traditional East Indian [Ayurvedic] medicine, etc);
- probiotics; and
- amino acids and essential fatty acids.
Are these products safe?There are so many different products available that there is no one answer to this question. What is important to remember is that ‘natural’ doesn't always mean safe. Some substances can be harmful if you take too much of them, while others can cause side effects or allergic reactions.
Even if a product is safe for adults, it may not be safe for children. Children are still growing and developing, and their bodies may respond differently to a product or medicine than adults’ bodies.
What else should I know before giving my child a natural health product?If your child is sick or has a chronic condition, it is important that you know that some natural health products can interact with other drugs, even nonprescription drugs. Talk to your child’s doctor before you give them a natural health product.
Are these products regulated?Health Canada has a Natural Health Products Directorate that regulates products for sale in Canada. Check the label. If a product has a Drug Identification Number (DIN) or a Natural Product Number (NPN) or Drug Identification Number – Homeopathic Medicine (DIN-HM), it has been assessed by Health Canada.
The Natural Health Products Directorate of Health Canada regulates products that have a wide margin of safety. It is working to develop appropriate paediatric labelling to help guide parents.
(This article is from http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/natural_health_products_and_children)
