Pharmacovigilance: The Safety of "Natural" Products
The 2026 clinical landscape has moved past the myth that "natural equals safe." Robust Pharmacovigilance systems now specifically track HMPs to identify rare but serious Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs).
Drug-Herb Interactions: A primary focus is the interaction between herbs and synthetic drugs. For example, St. John’s Wort is strictly monitored for its ability to induce liver enzymes that can "wash out" birth control or anti-rejection medications.
Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids (PAs): Tightened EU limits in 2026 address the risk of liver toxicity from "accidental" weeds harvested alongside medicinal crops.
Spontaneous Reporting: Consumers can now report herbal side effects directly via national mobile apps, integrated into the WHO’s VigiBase global database.
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