HerbList
Expert-developed at a federal agency
App Summary
App Screenshots
Detailed Description
Functionality & Mechanism
This digital reference tool from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) provides research-based information on herbal supplements. The HerbList app aggregates data from NCCIH's 'Herbs at a Glance' fact sheets for over 50 botanicals. Its interface presents users with identifying pictures, common names, scientific findings, and potential side effects or cautions for each entry. The tool also facilitates quick recall of preferred herbs and offers offline access to its database.
Development & Context
- The news coverage notes the app was developed to provide consumers and healthcare providers with unbiased, research-based information on supplements.
- This was prompted by data showing one in five Americans uses herbal supplements, representing nearly $13 billion in annual out-of-pocket costs.
- Its content is directly adapted from NCCIH's existing "Herbs at a Glance" series of fact sheets for more than 50 common botanicals.
- The app was launched through the National Library of Medicine's platform and is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Intended Use & Scope
HerbList is designed for consumers, patients, and healthcare providers seeking a rapid-response resource on common herbal supplements. Its scope is strictly informational, intended to support decision-making about supplement use in consultation with a medical professional. The information presented is based on news coverage of the developer's resources, not on direct clinical validation.
In the Media
What's in that supplement? Ask the HerbList app
The National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health launched the HerbList app this summer to provide evidence-based information about herbal supplements, using research-driven NIH resources. "In a survey NCCIH conducted with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, we found that one in five Americans uses herbs or herbal supplements, spending nearly $13 billion in out-of-pocket costs annually," said David Shurtleff, Ph.D., acting director of NCCIH. The free app offers scientific information about more than 50 popular herbal supplements including potential side effects, herb-drug interactions, and safety data.
NIH launches HerbList, a mobile app on herbal products
The National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health launched HerbList to help consumers navigate information about popular herbs and herbal supplements, using research-based data on safety and effectiveness. "People are considering herbs and herbal supplements for various reasons, and it is important that they are aware of what the research says about safety and effectiveness," said David Shurtleff, Ph.D., acting director of NCCIH. The app covers more than 50 herbs including kava, acai, ginkgo, and turmeric, providing information on potential safety problems, side effects, and herb-drug interactions.
New app offers info on safety, side effects of herbal products
The National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health launched HerbList to provide research-based information about the safety and effectiveness of herbal products, covering more than 50 herbs and herbal supplements. "People are considering herbs and herbal supplements for various reasons, and it is important that they are aware of what the research says about safety and effectiveness," said David Shurtleff, Ph.D., the center's acting director. The free app is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
App Information
Developer
National Library of Medicine at NIHCategory
Evidence Profile
Expert-developed at a federal agency
Platforms
Updated
Jan 2024
© 2025 National Library of Medicine at NIH
