Practical information to help you choose and use herbal products with confidence.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. For any health condition — or if you are pregnant,
nursing, or taking medication — please speak to a qualified health practitioner before using herbal products.
Understanding herbal products
Herbal products come in different formats. The format mainly affects how a product is taken or applied — always follow the directions on the label.
Capsules
Measured amounts of herbal material inside a capsule, taken by mouth. Convenient and easy to take at the same time each day.
Herbal teas
Dried herbal blends that you brew with hot water. Follow the pack's directions for how much to use and how long to steep.
Oils
Herbal oils may be for use on the skin or hair, or for taking by mouth, depending on the product. Check the label to see which applies.
Soaps
Herbal soaps are for external use on the skin only. Stop using any product that irritates your skin.
Supplements & extracts
Concentrated herbal preparations, often as liquids or capsules. Because they are concentrated, measuring the right amount matters.
The label is the most reliable source of information about a specific product. Before you use anything, check:
Ingredients — what the product contains. Check for anything you are allergic or sensitive to.
Directions — how much to take or use, how often, and how.
Warnings — who should not use the product, and any cautions.
Registration details — in Nigeria, many products show a NAFDAC registration number.
Batch number & expiry date — don't use a product after it has expired.
Storage instructions — how to keep the product in good condition.
If anything on a label is unclear, ask us before you use the product.
Safe use & precautions
A few simple habits help you use herbal products responsibly:
Follow the label directions and don't take more than recommended.
Speak to a qualified health practitioner first if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or nursing, or are taking prescription medicines — herbal products can interact with medicines.
Don't stop or replace prescribed treatment without talking to your doctor.
Keep products out of the reach of children.
Stop using a product and seek advice if you notice an unwanted reaction.
Store products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, unless the label says otherwise.
Browse by wellness interest
Looking for something specific? These groupings are a browsing aid based on each product's own description — not a diagnosis.