Editorial Policy

How we research, write, and maintain our content.

Last updated: July 2, 2026

Our Research Process

Every herb profile on HerbCraft follows a structured research process:

1. Primary source search — We begin with PubMed/NCBI to identify peer-reviewed studies on the herb's traditional uses, active compounds, clinical evidence, and safety profile.
2. Government database review — We consult the NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) for official positions and safety summaries.
3. Established medical reference cross-check — We verify information against Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and WebMD for clinical context.
4. Traditional use documentation — We document historical and traditional uses with appropriate context, clearly distinguishing traditional claims from evidence-backed claims.
5. Safety review — We specifically research drug interactions, contraindications, and populations who should avoid the herb (pregnant women, those on specific medications, etc.).
6. Citation compilation — All sources are listed in the References section of each article.

Sources We Use

Source	Type	Used For
PubMed / NCBI	Peer-reviewed database	Clinical studies, pharmacology, safety data
NIH NCCIH	Government health agency	Official safety summaries, evidence reviews
Mayo Clinic	Medical reference	Clinical context, drug interactions
Cleveland Clinic	Medical reference	Clinical context, patient-facing summaries
WebMD	Medical reference	General health context, dosage information
Peer-reviewed journals	Academic literature	Specific studies on efficacy and safety
Historical texts	Traditional medicine records	Traditional use documentation (clearly labeled)

Writing Standards

Accuracy First

We do not publish claims that are not supported by at least one credible source. When evidence is limited or conflicting, we say so explicitly. We distinguish between "traditionally used for" and "clinically shown to" — these are not the same thing, and we treat them differently.

No Hype

We do not use language like "miracle herb," "cure," or "guaranteed to work." Herbal medicine is a legitimate field of study with real evidence — and real limitations. We present both honestly.

Safety Emphasis

Every herb profile includes a dedicated Safety & Side Effects section and a "When to See a Doctor" box. We believe safety information is as important as efficacy information, and we never bury it.

Clear Disclaimers

Every page on HerbCraft carries a clear disclaimer that the content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. This is not boilerplate — we mean it, and we design our content accordingly.

Review Process

New herb profiles are reviewed by at least one additional team member before publication, with a focus on:

• Accuracy of factual claims against cited sources
• Completeness of safety information
• Clarity and readability for a general audience
• Appropriate hedging of uncertain or limited evidence
• Correct citation formatting

Update Frequency

Herbal research is an active field. We review and update our content on the following schedule:

• High-traffic herb profiles — Reviewed every 6 months
• All herb profiles — Reviewed annually
• Safety information — Updated immediately when new safety data or drug interaction warnings are published
• New herbs — Added as research warrants and team capacity allows

Each article displays a "Last Modified" date in its structured data so search engines and readers can assess recency.

Corrections Policy

We take accuracy seriously. If you identify an error, outdated information, or a missing citation, please contact us. We will review the issue promptly and issue a correction if warranted. Significant corrections are noted in the article.

Affiliate Relationships

HerbCraft participates in the Amazon Associates program. Some herb pages include product recommendations with affiliate links, which are clearly labeled with the disclosure: "As an Amazon Associate, herbcraft.app earns from qualifying purchases."

Affiliate relationships do not influence our editorial content. We do not accept payment for editorial coverage, and product recommendations are based on relevance to the herb being discussed, not on commercial relationships.

Medical Disclaimer