Book excerpt: Continuing the tradition of the acclaimed first edition, this book examines in detail the physiologic effects of food supplements, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Considering the site, mode, and mechanism of action, the author explains the desired and adverse effects and interactions of each herb, drug, and food, and either endorses or debunks popular conceptions with pure scientific data. Paying particular attention to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity, as well as incorporating current research on the role of chronic systemic inflammation and the cumulative effect of free radicals on the aging process, the author answers today's naturopathic questions. Deconstructing the interaction among herbal properties, physiology, and di