Botanicals

ASA ruling on blurred reviews reveals strict criteria on claims

ASA ruling on blurred reviews reveals strict criteria on claims

By Olivia Haslam

A new ruling from the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) over The Turmeric Co.’s use of blurred customer testimonials reinforces the agency’s strict stance on disease claims, reminding the industry that even implied treatment claims are off-limits.

Hop extract study moves beyond appetite to body composition

Hop extract study moves beyond appetite to body composition

By Cassandra Stern

A hop-derived nutraceutical may help adults with overweight lose body fat while maintaining muscle mass, according to a 24-week randomized controlled trial that researchers say expands the evidence supporting non-prescription weight-management ingredients.

Bipartisan hemp bill seeks federal pathway for cannabinoid products

Bipartisan hemp bill seeks federal pathway for cannabinoid products

By Cassandra Stern

The proposed legislation would establish a federal regulatory framework for hemp-derived cannabinoid products, which industry stakeholders say could provide long-sought regulatory certainty for manufacturers and create a clearer pathway for nutrition and...

Safety in question: What is the future of berberine?

NI+Safety in question: What is the future of berberine?

By Lauren Nicolle

Earlier this year, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that no safe intake level of berberine could be established, triggering a consultation to determine its regulatory status. Now, there is concern that this could lead to tighter...

How systems biology is redefining hair wellness

How systems biology is redefining hair wellness

By Danielle Masterson

For years, hair supplements largely focused on ingredients like biotin, collagen and botanicals aimed at supporting hair growth. Today, the category is evolving to incorporate emerging science in areas such as longevity, the microbiome, menopause and...

Australian regulator issues ashwagandha safety update

NI+Australian regulator issues ashwagandha safety update

By Tingmin Koe

Ashwagandha, already under regulatory scrutiny in India and Europe, is once again in the spotlight after Australian authorities warned of “very rare risk of liver injury” associated with its use.

SRI-81 Shatavari receives Health Canada NPN

SRI-81 Shatavari receives Health Canada NPN

By Stephen Daniells

Health Canada has issued Ixoreal Biomed’s SRI-81 Shatavari, a standardized, clinically validated root-only extract for the women’s health market, with a Natural Product Number.

Probiotic–phytonutrient blends may improve gut function

Probiotic–phytonutrient blends may improve gut function

By Olivia Haslam

Probiotic–phytonutrient blends containing Lacticaseibacillus and Bifidobacterium strains plus citrus bioflavonoids and dandelion root extract could improve bowl function and gut health, according to a new study.