Extreme cases when ingredients in herbal supplements cause severe side effects are unusual. But dietary supplements have long raised safety worries, with high-profile examples including ephedra, the herbal weight-loss treatment pulled from the U.S. market in 2004 after it was tied to heart problems and strokes. Some doctors continue to be concerned about evidence of side effects from such herbal ingredients, including research highlighting possible concerns about kava and comfrey. And the issue is drawing new attention after recent reports from the FDA about allegedly natural supplements illegally containing performance-enhancing drugs and undeclared pharmaceuticals.

For consumers, the upshot can be confusion and alarm. But people can reduce the risk that the supplements they take will endanger their health using a growing number of online information resources and certification programs, and some common-sense tactics.

Nearly two-thirds of American adults take dietary supplements, a broad category that includes vitamins, minerals and herbal products, according to the Council for Responsible Nutrition, an industry trade group. The most commonly used include multivitamins, calcium and omega-3, the group says. Allegedly natural over-the-counter treatments that promise to melt pounds, build muscle or boost energy are also widely used.

Most herbal supplements are consumed without raising safety concerns. Still, the products are much less closely scrutinized than drugs, which are tested extensively and must win FDA approval before going on the market. Supplements that are made from products that were on the U.S. market before 1994 can be sold without being reviewed by the FDA beforehand. Companies that include newer substances are supposed to inform the agency before they go on the market, but don’t have to wait for approval.

Officials at the Council for Responsible Nutrition say no new laws are needed, citing new FDA manufacturing standards for supplements, which are now being phased in, as well as a requirement for supplement makers to tell the FDA when they get reports of serious side effects, which took effect at the end of 2007.

Thats why people who want to take a supplement should talk to a doctor. Along with talking to a physician, people can do their own research. Many herbs have been tested in major studies and shown no benefits. Some have been linked to side effects, even without the presence of undisclosed drugs.

Before they take a supplement, consumers should also check for potential interactions between any herb, vitamin or mineral and their prescriptions. They should also be particularly sensitive if they have existing health issues. For instance, those with heart conditions should be careful about supplements that act as stimulants, which can involve ingredients such as bitter orange and guarana, in addition to caffeine.

Consumers can also search for specific supplements before taking them at www.fda.gov, to see if they’ve been included in safety warnings. Some other tactics are common sense, like being suspicious of those that boast dramatic curative effects. Consumers should also closely read the ingredients. Potentially dangerous substances often won’t be disclosed. But sometimes they are – if you know what to look for.

Finally, people should watch carefully for any symptoms that start after they take a new supplement.