Statutory Regulation of herbalists

Vinny, Emma and Chris from the office, on the Save Herbal Medicine lobby of parliament back in the cold uncertain days of November 2009.

Herbs In a Bottle is delighted at the news today that the government is proceeding with Statutory Regulation of herbalists via the Health Professions Council.

Welcoming the news Tony Carter writes:

"It is wonderful to hear that Statutory Regulation is going ahead. So many people have worked extremely hard to achieve this fantastic result, and it is very moving to think of all the dedicated and conscientious work which they have put in over nearly twenty years. This news confirms the professional status of herbal medicine in the United Kingdom, and assures its survival far into the future.

"I would like to thank all the staff at Herbs In A Bottle (and also from the former Proline) who enthusiastically joined in the campaign during the government consultation period. At one stage the general office was packed with staff filling in their consultation forms and sending off letters to the local MPs. Also those who went up to lobby the House of Commons on a bitterly cold day in November 2009.

"This is good news for herbalists and good news for herbal medicine manufacturers, but above all it is good news for the country - for all those patients who rely on herbal medicines for their health and well-being.

"This is also a very satisfying slap in the face for Ben Goldacre, Ezard Ernst, David Colquhoun and all the other self-appointed 'experts' and publicity seekers who have made it their business to oppose Statutory Regulation. Their negative campaigning entirely failed, and today the government made the right decision for the right reasons!"