Where to Buy Herbal Supplements in New Zealand: A Buyer's Checklist

Herbal supplements are sold almost everywhere in New Zealand, from pharmacies to supermarkets to overseas websites. Here's how the options compare, and a simple checklist to help you choose a product you can trust.

Where you can buy

Pharmacies

Pros: a pharmacist can check for interactions with your medicines. Cons: a smaller herbal range, often at higher prices.

Health food stores

Pros: a wide range and knowledgeable staff. Cons: prices vary, and staff aren't usually health professionals.

Supermarkets

Pros: convenient. Cons: a limited range and little advice.

NZ online stores

Pros: the widest choice, easy price comparison and home delivery. Cons: you need to check who you're buying from.

Overseas websites and marketplaces

Pros: sometimes cheaper. Cons: products may not meet NZ rules, labels may make claims that aren't allowed here, counterfeits are a risk on some marketplaces, and returns are hard.

A 7-point checklist for any supplement

1. A New Zealand seller with a physical address and a way to contact a real person.
2. A full ingredient list, including anything added.
3. The amount per serve in milligrams, so you can compare products.
4. What form it is: powder, extract (with a ratio or percentage) or oil.
5. No disease claims. Dietary supplements in NZ can't claim to treat, cure or prevent disease.
6. Honest pricing. Be wary of permanent "sale" prices.
7. Clear delivery and returns policies.

Buying from Herbicare

• A New Zealand owned and operated online store
• Full ingredient lists and serving directions on every product page
• Delivery across New Zealand
• A real team you can contact

Browse all herbal supplements or see our best sellers.

Disclaimer: This article is general educational information only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Herbicare products are dietary supplements, not medicines, and have not been evaluated by Medsafe. Traditional use does not necessarily reflect modern scientific evidence. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If you have a health condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take prescription medication, talk to a qualified health professional before starting any supplement. Individual results vary.