Natural health products

Quick Facts

  • Health Canada regulates natural health products (NHPs) so that Canadians can have confidence that the products they use are safe, effective and of high quality.
  • Labels are an important tool to assist Canadians in making informed health choices when selecting and using NHPs.
  • Health Canada has amended the Natural Health Products Regulations, to make NHP product labels easier to read and understand. These changes support consumers in selecting and safely using NHPs. For more information and to access the supporting Labelling of Natural Health Products guidance document, visit What's new: Natural and non-prescription health products

For industry information about COVID-19, visit our COVID-19 Disinfectants, sanitizers, cleaners and soaps section.

Natural Health Products

Under the Natural Health Products Regulations, which came into effect on January 1, 2004, natural health products (NHPs) are defined as:

  • Probiotics
  • Herbal remedies
  • Vitamins and minerals
  • Homeopathic medicines
  • Traditional medicines such as traditional Chinese medicines
  • Other products like amino acids and essential fatty acids

For Consumers

For Industry

Health Canada's Role

The Program assesses all NHPs before allowing their sale in Canada. It also verifies that NHPs are properly manufactured (without contamination or incorrect ingredients). The Program monitors companies involved in NHPs to make sure they respect the Natural Health Products Regulations.

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