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Herbal products come in many forms, but appearance says little about suitability. Here is what to ask about contents, directions and review.

Herbal products come as capsules, powders, liquid extracts and raw herbs for simmering into a decoction. Each form has its own feel: a capsule seems convenient, a pot of simmering herbs seems traditional. When herbal medicine is discussed at the Lane Cove clinic, though, appearance is the least important thing about a product.

What presentation cannot tell you

The look of a product says nothing reliable about whether it suits your health or what its quality is like. Neither convenience nor tradition answers the questions that actually matter, such as what is in it and how it might interact with medicines you take.

Questions about any preparation

When Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, recommends a preparation, ask:

• What does it contain, and in what form?
• How should it be taken, and with or without food?
• How long before we review it together?
• What should I do if I notice a side effect?

Labels belong on the container

Keep the product in its original packaging with the label and directions attached. Moving it into an unmarked jar or pill box may seem tidy, but it makes it harder to check what you are taking, especially if you need to tell another health professional or if a family member picks it up by mistake.

When your medicines change

If your GP or specialist adds, stops or changes a medicine, revisit the herbal plan with Christine instead of assuming the earlier advice still holds. The same applies if you become pregnant or are planning surgery.

If you are unsure

Should a new symptom appear and you wonder whether the product is involved, ring the clinic for advice. Avoid changing the dose by trial and error.

Storage tips

Store herbs as directed, away from heat and moisture, and out of reach of children.

North Shore patients weighing up capsules versus granules can raise the comparison during a visit to the Lane Cove clinic, and Christine will go through each option and the directions that go with it.