Potential Risks in Orchid-Based Dietary Supplements
Orchid-based sports supplements, touted for their promised benefits of improved strength, focus, and faster results, have come under scrutiny due to recent findings. A study revealed that these supplements are often inaccurately labeled, with many products showing discrepancies between the labeled and actual ingredient content [1].
Investigations into supplements claiming to include orchid-derived compounds like Eria jarensis revealed inconsistencies in the presence and quantity of the stated ingredients. This lack of standardization raises concerns about consumer safety and efficacy claims [1].
One concerning finding was the presence of dangerously high amounts of caffeine, up to 665 milligrams per serving, which is more than six cups of coffee. Other supplements were found to contain a stimulant banned for human use [1].
The study also found that an ingredient called N,N-dimethylphenethylamine, often listed on labels, wasn't present in some supplements and its amounts varied widely in others [1]. In some cases, consumers may be getting much more than they bargained for from these supplements, as one compound, theobromine, was present in some products at over 40 times the amount listed on the packaging [1].
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies dietary supplements as food rather than medicine, meaning they don't go through the same strict approval process as drugs [2]. This classification, coupled with the inconsistent labeling, means that many products remain on the market without clear evidence of what they contain or how they affect the body [2].
Professionals suggest sticking to single-ingredient supplements when possible as they are less likely to contain hidden or dangerous substances [3]. Researchers also suggest that supplements should be tested in well-designed clinical trials before being sold for performance or health benefits [3].
Until supplements are tested and labeled accurately, consumers should exercise caution with orchid-based sports supplements and seek products with verified quality and regulatory compliance [1]. The results of the study emphasize the need for stricter quality control and further safety evaluations [1][2].
Sources:
[1] Orchid-Based Sports Supplements Found Inaccurately Labeled and Potentially Hazardous. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.consumerreports.org/supplements/orchid-based-sports-supplements-found-inaccurately-labeled-and-potentially-hazardous/
[2] Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/food/dietary-supplements/what-you-need-know
[3] Clinical Toxicology Reports on Orchid-Based Sports Supplements. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7894273/
- The study on orchid-based supplements indicates a lack of standardization in the health-and-wellness market, raising concerns about the safety and efficacy of therapies-and-treatments that claim to include these supplements.
- Given the inconsistent labeling and the potential presence of dangerous substances, it's prudent for consumers to seek out nutrition information from reliable sources and choose supplements with verified quality and regulatory compliance, as suggested by the findings in the study on orchid-based sports supplements.
