Challenges and opportunities confronting the botanical dietary supplement industry

The intent of this review is to identify and characterize the scientific challenges confronting the botanical dietary supplements industry, explore opposing sides of some controversial issues, and outline an agenda for addressing the more acute problems. The issues posing the greatest challenge to the industry center on quality, safety, and benefit. A key conclusion is that development of the scientific base of the industry has not kept pace with the rapid expansion of the manufacturing and marketing components. Recommendations for addressing the existing challenges are offered.