A voice for
herbal medicine

We share traditional, scientific and practical insights written by experienced herbalists and health experts from the world of herbal medicine and natural health

Schisandra harvesting: From the habitat of the Amur tiger to the giant panda bear

Josef Brinckmann shares insight on the harvest and trade of schisandra species.

The sustainability of cordyceps

In light of its growing popularity, Julia Behrens explores the sustainability of cordyceps, including the implications of its collection and cultivation.

The sustainability of marshmallow

Marshmallow is a herb used widely in herbal medicine. Though not currently endangered, loss of habitat is decreasing populations and current demand threatens wild populations....

The sustainability of Siberian ginseng

As popularity for this adaptogenic herb increases, how can we ensure we are sourcing it sustainably? Jonas Brab explores the history, challenges and solutions.

The sustainability of devil’s claw

As devil’s claw grows in global popularity for its medicinal virtues, is this herb’s fame putting it in danger of extinction?

The sustainability of pau d’arco

Ann Armbrecht shares insights into the use, conservation, and harvest of pau d’arco, its threats, and how Peruvian company Pebani is working to protect it.

Chinese herb sustainability: Who is responsible?

Sustainability of herbal medicines and supply chains are very complex topics and issues vary between plants and cultures. This article sheds light on some of...

Sustainable practices: An easy slippery elm sustainable harvest guide

There are no published studies to help guide ‘sustainable’ harvests for slippery elm. Here is a practical slippery elm sustainable harvest guide.

Slippery elm sustainability: What practitioners and consumers should know

Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) is one of the most well-known, and widely used, medicinal tree barks native to North America. We explore its slippery elm's...

The sustainability of echinacea within herbal medicine

Echinacea is one of the most popular herbal medicines, but its popularity has come at a cost. We share sustainability issues around the precious medicinal...

The sustainability of liquorice

Liquorice is one of the most valued herbal medicines globally, yet its population sizes are shrinking rapidly. We share insights on the sustainability of this...

Extinction threats and CITES protection: Rhodiola as a case study

Many medicinal plants are under threat because of overharvesting, for example the popular Rhodiola. CITES is an international agreement between governments that aims to stop...

Goldenseal: Sustainability status

Susan Leopold explores what can be done to ensure Goldenseal's sustainable supply in future.

Toward a sustainable future for frankincense: An ancient medicine in a modern world

Dr. Anjanette DeCarlo and Stephen Johnson explore the many changes the sustainable trade in frankincense has seen.

Kava: Mythical origins and epic coevolution

Origin Myths from various cultures and religions are fascinating examples of oral tradition. Bill Chioffi shares the story of a plant which is used in...

Endangered plants and women’s health: Fertility herbs at risk

Susan Leopold, Executive Director at United Plant Savers, discusses why plants used for women's health are at risk and how to avoid using endangered fertility...

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