But amid this increased uptake, nutritionists are warning that consumptions of turmeric for joint health and arthritis could, for instance, lead to formation of kidney stones.
A recent study conducted in the US has linked dietary supplements to liver toxicity.
Life-threatening complications
Musembi Muthusi, a clinical nutritionist at Health Cart, stresses that drugs, herbs and supplements carry potential health risks and side effects.
"These include nausea, vomiting, headache and allergic reactions. Some may interact with other medicines or over-the-counter products, leading to serious and possibly life-threatening complications,” says Mr Musembi.
Understanding the benefits and risks, the nutritionist says, is essential. Even then, he adds, one should consult a healthcare professional before consuming the supplements or herbs.
"Herbal supplements are derived from plants, including their oils, roots, leaves, seeds, berries or flowers. Common herbal supplements include chamomile for sleep and relaxation and cranberry for urinary tract infections," says Mr Musembi.
Others are garlic, which is made into garlic supplements and is believed to lower cholesterol and treat colds and other infections. Mr Musembi says garlic is generally safe when eaten as a food. But as a supplement, it has some adverse side effects.
Ginger is a common home remedy for nausea, vomiting and motion sickness. Some people also believe it can be used to reduce inflammation.
According to Martha Wangari, a dietician and nutritionist, people also use supplements to supplement the nutrients they get from food, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids and probiotics.
Common supplements include calcium for bone health, fibre for healthy weight and gut health, vitamin D for bone and immune health, magnesium for bone health or headaches, melatonin for sleep, multivitamins to increase nutrient intake, omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health, and probiotics for gastrointestinal health.
"It's important to understand that dietary and herbal supplements can carry potential risks and side effects. Despite common misconceptions, they are not necessarily safer than conventional medicines. When people are dissatisfied with conventional medical treatments, some turn to herbs and supplements, but it's important to recognise their potential dangers," stresses Ms Wangari.
"Turmeric is not a supplement you should take for long periods of time. Taking it in large doses can cause stomach upset and acid reflux, and can significantly increase urinary oxalate levels, putting you at risk of kidney stone formation," cautions Mr Musembi.
Nashon Okanga, a consultant gastroenterologist in Nairobi, says an excess of anything is harmful, and the first step is to define what is meant by excess.
"When you say excess of turmeric, what is excess? And how many grammes of turmeric in a day, and what are you basing that on? " Poses Dr Okanga.
"Again, herbal medicine is a big term, and anything you take that is leaves, people call them herbal, but they are not the same thing. Some leaves are harmful, some are not. It depends on the particular herbal medicine you are talking about," he adds.
Loose regulation
Despite herbs and supplements being labelled 'natural', Ms Wangari warns that there is no guarantee of safety, as supplements are not regulated in the same way as medicines.
"There is a real risk that they may not contain what they claim. Some may contain contaminants or make misleading claims on the label," she says.
The dietary supplements market is driven by the wellness and healthy lifestyle trend. However, millions of Kenyans do not have adequate access to a nutritious and varied diet.
According to Mr Musembi, initiatives that provide supplements and fortified foods directly to vulnerable populations are essential services in the country to address hidden hunger.
