Bulletins - Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAMs)

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There is far less information about the effectiveness, safety and potential for interactions for complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) compared to conventional medicines. There is no regulation of their quality or contents in New Zealand. Consider also other risks of CAMs, such as patients choosing them over conventional treatment, and the often substantial cost.   Report any possible adverse effects or interactions to CARM.

Quality of complementary and alternative products - October 15, 2021

Complementary and alternative products (CAPs) include: herbals (dried plant materials, plant extracts), dietary supplements, probiotics and homeopathic products. For most CAPs sold in New Zealand, adherence to the Code of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) is voluntary and regulatory approval is n...

St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) - November 1, 2018

November 2018 There is far less information about the effectiveness, safety and potential for interactions for complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) compared to conventional medicines. There is no regulation of their quality or contents in New Zealand. Consider also othe...

Complementary & Alternative Medicines: Curcuma longa (Turmeric) - July 4, 2018

Curcuma longa (Turmeric)   July 2018 There is far less information about the effectiveness, safety and potential for interactions for complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) compared to conventional medicines. There is no regulation of their quality or conte...

Complementary & Alternative Medicines: Artemisia annua - July 4, 2018

  Artemisia annua  July 2018 There is far less information about the effectiveness, safety and potential for interactions for complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) compared to conventional medicines. There is no regulation of their quality or cont...

Interactions between herbal products and conventional medicines - July 9, 2014

Herbal products are commonly used by many patients alongside conventional medicines. The aim of this bulletin is to describe potential interactions with five popular products; St John’s wort, ginkgo, garlic, echinacea and fish oil. Pharmacokinetic interactions (see table below): Enzym...