Other reasons for using a first herbal supplement that were recorded by the survey, and the associated IPUMS NHIS variables, are:

• HER1DRUGCOST (Prescription or non-prescription drugs too expensive)

• HER1USHCREC (Health care provider recommended)

• HER1USIMMUN (Improved immune function)

• HER1USMEDCOST (Medical treatment too expensive)

• HER1USMEDFAIL (Medical treatment did not help)

• HER1MENT (Improved mental ability or memory)

• HER1PHYS (Improved physical performance)

• HER1USRELREC (Family or friends recommended)

• HER1USWELL (General wellness)

• HER1SPORT (Improved sports performance)

• HER1TREAT (Treat a disease or health problem)

• HER1PREV (Prevent a disease or health problem)

For sample adults who had taken two or more herbal supplements in the past 30 days, parallel information was recorded on their reasons for taking the second herbal supplement. (See, for example, HER2SEX.)

For information about the full range of variables related to natural herbs, including a definition of "natural herbs," see HERYR.