AHPA celebrates 40 years

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The year 2022 marks the American Herbal Products Association’s (AHPA) 40th anniversary. Since its inception, AHPA has seen significant growth, and now has more than 400 member companies across five continents, 17 committees representing key areas of industry interest, and valuable resources. The organization will be celebrating its 40th year by recognizing landmark achievements, key milestones, and longtime members with online and in-person events throughout the year. 

“AHPA’s distinguished history of regulatory action and advocacy speaks to the dedication and expertise of our members and staff,” said AHPA president Michael McGuffin, in a press release. “Though much has changed in four decades, AHPA’s mission to protect and preserve the choices of our families, friends and neighbors who seek access to herbs for their personal health has endured since 1982."

The Association’s regulatory and self-regulatory actions have taken on a number of forms over four decades. For example, in 1988, AHPA’s first trade requirement was adopted, prohibiting trade in wild-harvested lady’s slippers. In 2006, AHPA led industry support for the establishment of a serious adverse event reporting law, and most recently, in 2021, AHPA led a coordinated effort in the herbal community to prevent consumer confusion over the word “herbalist” by opposing use of the term as a trademark.

“It is an honor to preserve the history of medicinal plants and herbal ingredients, as well as support research and regulation to ensure herbal goods and natural products are accessible to consumers who want them,” said McGuffin. “Together with AHPA’s members, board of trustees and committees, the other trade organizations representing dietary supplements, and all those who make up our diverse and passionate herbal community, the AHPA team and I look forward to continuing to advance the industry in 2022 and beyond.”