Herb Pharm Brand Introduction

Ed Smith and Sara Katz built Herb Pharm in 1979. Both Ed and Sara were fascinated by plants and their medicinal properties. As they grew their company, they sought to understand plants with greater depth and explore their vast healing properties. They expanded their knowledge of botanicals and their uses through travel and research, and they strongly believe that broad-spectrum liquid herbal extracts are the most effective way to administer herbs. The Herb Pharm brand has become renowned as a highly trusted herbal extracts company, boasting over four decades of experience in Certified Organic and regenerative herb agriculture. In this blog, I’ll explore 8 of their most popular supplements, giving you an idea of their composition and use.

Arnica Oil

Herb Pharm’s Arnica Oil formulation is simple; composed of certified organic olive oil & certified organic Arnica extractives. Herb Pharm includes an Herb Menstruum ratio for their products to give you clarity on the ratio of the solvent (menstruum) that was used to extract the herb. For Arnica Oil, this was 1 gram of herb for 6 mL of solvent. Herb Pharm uses the whole flower for this extract in order to capture all that it has to offer. The Arnica flower is harvested in full bloom and shade-dried so that the full color and aroma are retained. Arnica is also referred to as Leopard’s Bane or Wolf’s Bane and is traditionally used to help relieve pain, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. Herb Pharm’s Arnica Oil is meant to be used externally only. I recommend applying Arnica Oil to painful and/or inflamed areas one to three times per day, massaging it into the skin until it is well absorbed.

Cholesterol Health

Cholesterol Health is part of Herb Pharm’s System Restoration focus and targets cardio & circulatory health. The Cholesterol Health extract blend is as follows:

• Artichoke leaf (Cynara cardunculus)*, Hawthorn flowering herb & berry (Crataegus spp.)*(1), Turmeric rhizome (Curcuma longa)*, Fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare)*
• Other Ingredients: certified organic cane alcohol (51-61%) & distilled water.
• *Certified Organic
  **Extraction rate 175 mg herb per 0.7 ml
  (1) Responsibly Wildcrafted

Studies have shown that Artichoke can help lower LDL levels. LDL is commonly referred to as the “bad” cholesterol. These lipids need to be managed to keep the body healthy, and artichoke can be helpful in that process. Crataegus, otherwise known as the Hawthorn herb & berry, is a standout for its cardioprotective nature as discovered in various studies. Turmeric steps in to help increase ‘good’ cholesterol, and combat the ‘bad’ – helping with overall cholesterol management. Fennel also combats the lipid profile in your body. A 2021 study concluded, “Fennel extract can decrease the lipid profile by changing the expression of the leptin receptor.” All of these ingredients combat cholesterol through a different angle, helping provide holistic support with Cholesterol Health. 

I suggest taking Cholesterol Health between meals, 2-5 times a day. Add 1 full squeeze to 2oz of water or juice. 

Willow Bark

Willow Bark has a long history of being used as an anti-inflammatory. Herb Pharm’s Willow Bark is meant to be used to support your nervous system as it deals with minor pains from injury. Willow Bark is best if taken between meals. I suggest adding 1 full squeeze of Willow Bark to 2 oz. of water or juice, 2 to 5 times per day. The ingredients are as follows: 

• Willow bark (Salix spp.)* extract
• Other Ingredients: distilled water, certified organic cane alcohol (14-24%) & certified organic vegetable glycerin. 
• Gluten Free. Herbal Identity Assured. Non-GMO. Vegan. 
• *Responsibly Wildcrafted
  **Extraction rate 140 mg herb per 0.7 ml
• Dry herb / menstruum ratio: 1:5
• Prepared from the bark of Salix spp. trees which are responsibly wildcrafted in their natural habitat. 

Ginger

Ginger finds itself on a long list of ‘antis’: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and antiulcer. This makes Ginger incredibly versatile in the ways it can support the body. One area that studies are showing significant benefits is with gastrointestinal concerns. Herb Pharm’s Ginger helps promote circulatory warming and alleviates occasional nausea. I suggest adding 1 full squeeze of Ginger to 2 oz. of water or juice, 2 to 5 times per day. Best taken between meals. 

Ingredients:

• Ginger rhizome  (Zingiber officinale)* extract
• Other Ingredients: certified organic cane alcohol (76-86%) & distilled water. 
• Gluten Free. Herbal Identity Assured. Non-GMO. Vegan.
• *Certified Organic
  **Extraction rate 140 mg herb per 0.7 ml.
• Dry herb / menstruum ratio: 1:5

Black Walnut

Herb Pharm’s Black Walnut is meant to support cleansing and detoxification within the body. This is matched with its sour, slightly bitter, and astringent taste. The Black Walnut Extract is prepared from the fresh, unripe green outer hull of Juglans nigra (Black Walnut) trees. These are responsibly hand-harvested in Kentucky every summer. Black Walnut is not meant for long-term use beyond 6 weeks. If you use it for 6 weeks, your body should have at least a 2 week break afterwards. I suggest taking Black Walnut between meals; 2 to 4 times per day. Add 1 full squeeze to 2 oz. of water or juice. The Black Walnut formulation is as follows:

• Black Walnut green hull (Juglans nigra)*(1) extract
• Other Ingredients: certified organic cane alcohol (40-50%), certified organic vegetable glycerin, certified organic vinegar, and distilled water.
• Gluten Free. Herbal Identity Assured. Non-GMO. Vegan. 
• *Responsibly Wildcrafted
  **Extraction rate 560 mg fresh herb per 0.7 ml.
  (1) Fresh (undried)
• Fresh herb / menstruum ratio: 1:1.25

Blood Pressure Support

Herb Pharm’s Blood Pressure Support is another great option for System Restoration. As you might imagine, the Blood Pressure Support formulation is tailored to support Cardio & Circulatory health as it helps maintain established normal blood pressure. The star ingredient in Blood Pressure Support is the Hawthorn Blend, made from the leaf, flower, and berry of the Crataegus spp. trees. If you’d like to learn more about the inner workings of Hawthorn as it works with your cardiovascular system, check out this compilation of study findings. 

I suggest taking 1 full squeeze of the Blood Pressure Support dropper bulb to 2 oz. of water or juice, 3 or 4 times per day. It is best taken between meals. The full ingredient list is as follows:

• Hawthorn flowering aerial parts & berry (Crataegusspp.)*(1), Olive leaf (Olea europaea)*, Linden flower with bract (Tilia sp.)*, Coleus Forskohlii root (Plectranthus barbatus)*, Mistletoe aerial parts (Viscum album)*
• Other Ingredients: certified organic cane alcohol (53-63%), distilled water & certified organic vegetable glycerin.
• Gluten Free. Herbal Identity Assured. Non-GMO. Vegan. 
• *Certified Organic
  **Extraction rate 187 mg herb per 0.7 ml
  (1) Responsibly Wildcrafted

Ashwagandha (Alcohol-Free)

Ashwagandha has become relatively popular in the supplement world. Ashwagandha is a calming adaptogen that can help in navigating day-to-day stressors and promoting an overall calm energy. Herb Pharm offers an alcohol-free solution as well as a certified organic cane alcohol solution, helping to make this tincture more accessible for those interested in supplementing with it. I suggest adding a full dropper of Ashwagandha to 2 oz. of water or juice and taking it 2 or 3 times per day. It is best taken between meals. The alcohol-free ingredient details  can be found here:

• Ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera)* extract
• Other Ingredients: certified organic vegetable glycerin & distilled water.
• Gluten Free. Herbal Identity Assured. Non-GMO. Vegan.
• *Certified Organic
  **Extraction rate 175 mg herb per 0.7 ml.
• Contains NO Alcohol.
• Dry herb / menstruum ratio: 1:4

Oat Seed (Alcohol-Free)

Herb Pharm also offers Oat Seed in an alcohol-free formulation; as well as a certified organic cane alcohol solution. Oat seed works with the nervous system as a support to restore & tone. Herb Pharm’s Oat Seed glycerite is prepared from the fresh (undried) seed of Avena sativa plants. These plants are grown on their Certified Organic farm in southern Oregon. Oat Seed is also best taken between meals. I suggest adding 1 full squeeze to 2 oz. of water or juice, 2 to 5 times per day. The alcohol-free formulation is as follows:

• Oat "milky" seed (Avena sativa)*(1) extract
• Other Ingredients: certified organic vegetable glycerin & distilled water. 
• Gluten Free. Herbal Identity Assured. Non-GMO. Vegan.
• *Certified Organic
  **Extraction rate 350 mg fresh herb per 0.7 ml.
  (1) Fresh (undried)
• Contains NO Alcohol.
• Fresh herb / menstruum ratio: 1:2
  

FAQs

Who owns Herb Pharm?

Herb Pharm was created by Sara Katz and Ed Smith in 1979 and was later acquired by Montlake Capital.  

Is Herb Pharm third party tested?

Yes, all of the Herb Pharm formulas are tested by an unbiased 3rd party.  Herb Pharm adheres to the FDA’s Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).  Herb Pharm is registered with UL Registrar.  

Does Herb Pharm test for heavy metals?

Yes, Herb Pharm tests for heavy metals, pesticides, fungicides, miticides, and herbicides. 

What is the best herbal company?

Herb Pharm is one of the oldest liquid herbal companies in the United States.  They have set the standard for excellence in their farming and sourcing practices.  

What are the benefits of arnica oil?

Arnica oil is a natural anti-inflammatory for your skin.  It reduces pain, swelling, and discomfort and can speed up the body’s natural healing process by increasing blood flow. 

Can you put arnica oil directly on skin?

Arnica oil is usually diluted with a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil.  Full-strength arnica oil contains high levels of helanalin, which can irritate your skin.  Herb Pharm Arnica Oil is diluted with olive oil and can be applied directly to your skin.

What to avoid when taking arnica?

Arnica can be used topically and can also be taken orally in a homeopathic preparation.  Both forms of arnica act as a mild blood thinner, so they should not be taken while on blood pressure medications or anti-clotting medication, including aspirin. 

What are the side effects of arnica oil?

Arnica oil is used for pain and swelling relief.  It must be diluted in a carrier oil like Herb Pharm’s Arnica Oil.

What is arnica oil good for?

Arnica oil is used for alleviating pain by reducing inflammation.  It can be applied to bruises or swollen areas and joints.  I recommend using it up to 3 times per day. 

Can you put arnica oil directly on skin?

Diluted arnica oil can be put directly on your skin.  Full-strength arnica oil is too strong for topical use and needs to be diluted with a carrier oil. 

Can you get pure arnica oil?

Yes, you can purchase pure anica oil, but it is usually diluted in a carrier oil so that it will not burn or irritate your skin. Herb Pharm Arnica Oil is pure organic arnica in certified organic olive oil. 

What does arnica oil smell like?

The smell is described as earthy, like a forest.  Some say it has notes of rosemary, lemon, pine, and sage.  Pure arnica oil is diluted with another oil that has a mild smell, such as jojoba, fractionated coconut, or olive oil.  

What is the best herb for lowering cholesterol?

Hawthorn berry has a long history of use for lowering cholesterol.  Fresh hawthorn berries are difficult to find, so I suggest taking a capsule or liquid tincture.  Herb Pharm Cholesterol Health contains hawthorn berries, turmeric, and fennel to support cholesterol health. 

What is the best natural remedy for high cholesterol?

The best natural remedy for high cholesterol is a low carbohydrate diet and regular movement.  Hawthorn berry and fish oil are the 2 supplements I recommend for lowering cholesterol. 

What do the Chinese use to lower cholesterol?

As far back as 659 AD, Chinese medical records indicate using the berries of a hawthorn bush for blood related issues.

What flushes cholesterol out of your body?

Fiber flushes out cholesterol, and many other substances, from your body.  If you do not eat enough fiber, I suggest a fiber supplement to move you bowels at least 1 time per day.  Adding a fiber supplement will also assist you in feeling full and satisfied.  If you have high cholesterol and want to lose weight, I recommend Ortho Molecular MGP Fiber, which supports healthy weight loss and GLP-1 receptors.  

What is willow bark good for?

Willow bark is used for reducing pain naturally.  It does not have the side effects of NSAIDS.  

Who should not take white willow bark?

White willow bark supplements contain natural salicin, which is also an ingredient in aspirin.  If you have an allergy or sensitivity to salicylates or aspirin, do not take white willow bark supplements. White willow bark should not be taken with blood-thinning medications.  Check with your doctor before taking white willow bark supplements if you are taking any medications that affect your liver, kidneys, heart, or circulatory system.  It is not safe to take during pregnancy or lactation.

Can you take willow bark every day?

Yes, you can take white willow bark every day.  For acute conditions, take higher doses, and for chronic conditions, take lower doses. 

Is willow bark the same as aspirin?

White willow bark and aspirin both contain salicin, which is anti-inflammatory within your body.  White willow bark doesn’t have the same side effects as aspirin.  The most common side effects of aspirin are heartburn, nausea,  stomach pain, cramping and burning, and black tarry stools. 

What are the benefits of willow bark herb?

White willow bark contains salicin, which is converted into salicylic acid in your body.  This acid stops the prostaglandin cascade that causes inflammation and pain.   

Is willow bark hard on the liver?  

If you have a liver disease, you should avoid taking white willow bark. 

Is it safe to take willow bark every day?

Yes, it is safe to take white willow bark every day for at least 12 weeks.

Is willow bark the same as aspirin? 

Willow bark and aspirin contain the same pain relieving substance called salicin or salicylic acid. 

What are the health benefits of ginger in herbal drug technology?

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) ginger reduces inflammation, manages nausea, improves blood sugar levels, and can prevent chronic disease states. 

What is ginger liquid extract good for?

Liquid ginger extract is quickly absorbed in the mouth and stomach and is good for rapid relief from nausea.  

What are the herbal actions of ginger?

Ginger extract contains gingerols and shogaols, which are the compounds that reduce inflammation in various parts of your body.  Ginger is known as an anti-inflammatory.  It is also known as an antioxidant, carminative, circulatory stimulant, diaphoretic, expectorant, nootropic, antiemetic, digestive aid, and analgesic.  

What is the pharmacological name of ginger?

The plant or pharmacological name for ginger is zingiber officinale.

What is ginger supplement good for?

The active medicinal extracts in ginger are called gingerols and shogaols.  Look for a ginger supplement that has measured and standardized extracts in the ingredient list.  Herb Pharm ginger extract contains an Extraction rate of 140 mg herb per 0.7 ml.

Is it OK to take ginger supplements every day?

Yes, ginger supplements can be taken every day.  Ginger has a host of anti-inflammatory actions within your body.  Some people take ginger as a digestive aid at every meal. 

What does ginger do for your body?

Ginger primarily reduces inflammation which reduces many symptoms.  Ginger is known to reduce inflammation and irritation in your digestive system, so it is often taken as a digestive aid. 

Who should not take ginger supplements?

At high doses, ginger can have a blood-thinning effect.  Talk to your doctor if you are on a blood thinner.  

What is the herb black walnut used for?

Black walnut is used to get rid of intestinal parasites. 

What parasites does black walnut treat?

Black walnut contains a phytonutrient juglone, which is toxic to intestinal worms and some fungal growth, including ringworm and candida. 

Is black walnut the same as wormwood?

No, black walnut extract is from the black walnut tree, and wormwood is from the artemisia bush. 

What are the side effects of black walnut pills?

Black walnut can kill parasites and some fungus inside your body.  The side effects can be called a “detox” reaction, and you may experience flu-like symptoms.  It is important to ensure you are eliminating and detoxifying before taking anti-parasite herbs. 

What is black walnut tincture used for?

Black walnut tincture is used as part of a parasite program for ridding your digestive tract and body of parasites. 

How long can you take black walnut tincture?

There are limited long-term studies on taking black walnut for more than 180 days.  I recommend taking black walnut tincture or other anti-parasite herbs for 90 days and then taking a 30-day break. 

What is the best natural supplement for high blood pressure?

Hawthorn berry is the best natural supplement for high blood pressure, and it has the least amount of side effects. 

What medicinal plant is used to treat blood pressure?

Hawthorn Berry is used to lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels. 

Which plant root is used to control high blood pressure?

Hawthorn Berry can be used in conjunction with diet and exercise to control high blood pressure.  I also recommend a magnesium supplement. 

What herbs regulate low blood pressure?

Licorice root is used to regulate and raise low blood pressure. 

Can you take ashwagandha with high blood pressure medication?

Ashwagandha may lower blood pressure, so it should not be used in conjunction with blood pressure medications.  

What cannot be mixed with ashwagandha?

Do not take Ashwagandha with blood pressure-lowering medications.  Ashwagandha may also lower blood sugar and increase thyroid hormone production.  Keep this in mind if using these medications. 

What happens when you take ashwagandha daily?

Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that supports your adrenal glands and HPA axis system.  You can expect your hormones to become more balanced and cortisol production to be more consistent. 

How much alcohol is in ashwagandha?

There is no alcohol in the Herb Pharm Alcohol Free Ashwagandha Tincture. 

What is the benefit of oat seed tincture?

Oat seed tincture is used for mood support and anxiety relief. 

What is oat seed used for?

It can also be used for heart health, including cholesterol reduction. 

Is oat seed the same as milky oats?

They are the same plant, but they are harvested at different times during the growth cycle. 

Conclusion

Herb Pharm has a long and respectable history in providing medicinal herb tinctures. Liquids are easier to digest and often more effective than capsules that have to go through your entire digestive system. If you would like to introduce herbal tinctures into your health journey, please schedule a consultation with me, Carly Neubert BA, NC.