The results of the investigation of the herbal supplements in the US reveal that many of the products of the biggest supplement brands- do not even contain the herb on the label, and contain GMO ingredients and synthetic chemical fillers.

The herbal supplements, which were tested included gingko biloba, St. John's Wort, ginseng, garlic, echinacea, and saw palmetto.

Eric Schneiderman from the New York State Attorney General, led the investigation, which concluded that only 21 percent of the tested products contained DNA from the plants listed on the products' labels, so 79 percent basically contained no trace of the herb on the label.

Also, allergens, like wheat, were found in some products without the label indicating that the product contains those substances. This is incredibly dangerous to those with food allergies or intolerances.

The investigation allege that GNC, Target, Walmart, and Walgreens were selling brand supplements that either contain ingredients that are not listed on the label, or do not contain the advertised substance. Eric Schneiderman issued a letter to all four companies telling them to immediately stop selling these supplements.

How this even could have happened?

Well, herbal supplements are not subject to the FDA's approval, thanks to a loophole in a 1994 federal law. This law was spearheaded by Utah Senator Orrin Hatch, who received funding from supplement makers, so fraudulent products like these have reached millions of consumers.

The results of the investigated companies can be summarized as follows:

– Only half of Target's 'Up & Up' brand supplements contained the labeled supplement.

– GNC had only one supplement (garlic) test positively for its labeled content.

– Only one of Walgreens' 'Finest' brand supplements—saw palmetto—consistently tested for its labeled contents.

– Walmart fared the worst of all of this companies.

None of its 'Spring Valley' brand supplements consistently revealed DNA of the labeled plant.

It is more important now than ever to make sure our supplements are safe. Our advice to consumers is to always know their source.
What can you do to protect yourself?

– Try to get references on the manufacturer from previous customers.
– Call the company and ask where their ingredients come from.
– Talk to a natural health practitioner and get a recommendation for a dependable, quality brand.

It's up to you to find out what you're swallowing, masked like a herbal supplement.

 

Source: http://healthybiofood.com