Herbs & Supplements

Amorphophallus konjac Scientific Name: Glucomannan Other Names: Devil's Tongue, Elephant-foot Yam, Konjac, Konjac Mannan, Konnyaku, Snake Plant What side effects should I watch for? Glucomannan tablets are not recommended for oral use. Reportedly, several individuals experienced blockage of the esophagus when they took glucomannan in tablet form. The tablets lodged in their throats and swelled when exposed to water. In 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) removed jelled candies containing glucomannan from the market after they caused several choking deaths. Children and elderly individuals were especially likely to choke on the candy. Although no cases have been reported, the potential for a similar blockage of the intestines exists. One case of allergic pneumonia caused by inhaling glucomannan dust has been documented in an individual who worked for over 35 years in a factory that produced glucomannan powder. << Back What interactions should I watch for? >>

Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.

In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.

This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.