Gaia & Herbs

Richard Scalzo founded Gaia Herbs in 1987. A decade later, the company relocated to a 250-acre farm in western North Carolina. More than 90 medicinal herbs are grown there without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides or genetically modified seeds. The company's practices have been certified organic under a U.S. Department of Agriculture program.

Plants

• The purple coneflower is a popular herb for teas.

  The philosophy behind Gaia Herbs is based on understanding nature and the role of plants and recognizing plant intelligence. The managers who work for Gaia farms say people must nurture the original purpose of the plants. This means growing, harvesting and processing the plants to best preserve each plant's intended healing powers. Natural means are used to encourage growth and discourage damaging insects. Scalzo says consumers should be aware of the entire process, from seed to harvest to processed herb, to ensure they receive the correct and consistent potency every time.

Staff

• Keri Marshall, medical director of Gaia, is a licensed naturopathic physician who specializes in pediatrics, women's medicine and chronic disease. Jillian Stansbury is a licensed naturopathic physician, author, speaker and teacher at Gaia. And Mary Bove is an herbalist, author, teacher and lecturer who has been published in many magazines. Scalzo is an authority on cultivating, extracting, standardization and traditional herbal remedies.

Affiliations

• Gaia Herbs is affiliated with several well-known councils, agencies, and businesses that are involved with botanical and herbal products, as well as natural pharmacies. This helps the company remain current on news and breakthroughs in the communities of herbal products and natural medicine. The American Botanical Council compiles information on herbs and how they affect the human body. The American Association of Naturopathic Practitioners represents physicians who must have a source of pure and standardized herbs to treat medical conditions.

Research

• Gaia operates under a scientific advisory board composed of a team of doctors, scientists and researchers knowledgeable in emerging health trends, herbal remedies and relevant medical news. Gaia makes a point of staying current on news about organic farming and strives to create quality herbs used in alternative and integrated medicine.

Herb Reference Guide

• Gaia has an extensive herbal guide. The guide explains how the herbs are used, what conditions they are known to treat and what a standard dosage is for adults. The guidelines include a warning to seek medical attention for the diagnosis of conditions needing immediate or urgent attention.

Dangers of Herbal Remedies

• Few herbs have any major side-effects, but care should be taken when mixing herbs with prescription medication. Some herbs should not be taken with blood thinners or before having surgery. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use herbs unless directed to do so by their physician. Consult your own physician before starting an herbal remedy.