Plants are not automatically safe
Many medicinal plants contain toxic compounds at high doses (e.g., pyrrolizidine alkaloids, cardiac glycosides). Interaction with pharmaceuticals adds risk.
Risk assessment
- Acute toxicity (LD50 in models)
- Chronic exposure studies
- Hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic monitoring
- Reproductive and developmental effects
Labeling
Contraindications, maximum daily dose, and pregnancy warnings required for commercial products in regulated markets.