Cramp Bark Sourcing Issues: How Can We Be Certain?

How is it possible for an herb to make it all the way through the Supply Chain before realizing that it’s not Cramp Bark?

While sometimes frustrating, there can be lots of different ways an ingredient can be adulterated. In this case, we don’t know the exact reason. It could intentional or non-intentional. It could be accidental in the harvesting process due to loss of expertise in the field. The harvesters may believe it’s the right plant, but it was actually a different plant all together. All of the failures told us that the suppliers were not doing their due diligence. They were not doing appropriate testing on their end.

What does our Master Herbalist know to look for when reviewing ingredients?

We ask for source material so that we can ID test it as well as complete organoleptic analysis. We are looking for specific parts of the plant. How can we be for certain that there is not any Cramp Bark available?

Redd Remedies is a member of AHPA and the American Botanical Council and has been in close communication with these organizations. They also are finding these issues in the supply chain. We also spend time discussing with other herbalists. There is plenty of biomass,  but not the finished powders or extracts that Redd Remedies is looking for.

Is it possible that other companies have a supplier that has legitimate Cramp Bark material?

It is possible. Especially if you are purchasing a tea or liquid tincture form, there is a strong possibility this is a credible source. It’s also possible that larger companies using this material may have solidified their supply and material well in advance. Make sure you trust and know the company you are buying from.