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	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 133 words of the full text and any section headings.

To the Editor: Dr Whelton and colleagues¹ advocate several lifestyle modifications, such as adequate exercise and conscientious dietary choices, to prevent hypertension. We welcome this greater emphasis on personal choice in maintaining health. It is unfortunate, however, that the authors disparaged the broad class of "herbal or botanical dietary supplements." Their list of 10 "herbs" includes 4 ingredients that are not, in fact, herbs (glucosamine, lecithin, chondroitin, and creatine). Of the 6 substances correctly identified as herbal, 3 (ginkgo, Asian ginseng, and garlic) have been the subject of at least some scientific inquiry in relation to hypertension. While more studies may be needed, it is inaccurate to state that "[f]ew clinical trial reports are available" to support use of these herbs for this purpose.

Michael McGuffin
American Herbal Products Association
Silver Spring, Md

1. Whelton PK, He J, Appel LJ, et al. Primary prevention of hypertension: clinical and public health advisory from the National High Blood Pressure Education Program. JAMA. 2002;288:1882-1888. FREE FULL TEXT

Letters Section Editor: Stephen J. Lurie, MD, PhD, Senior Editor.

JAMA. 2003;289:843.

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