The Herb Journal

This article explores the overlooked history of Black physicians educated at the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, one of the few medical schools in the 19th and early 20th centuries...

This article is a storytelling tribute to Ed Alstat—herbalist, grower, and visionary—whose deep love of plants shaped a life of purpose and stewardship. Through the herbs that meant the most...

In this post, we step inside the Eclectic Library to explore the herbs we return to—hawthorn, elder, and rosemary—and the reasons they have endured for centuries. Through vintage texts and...

Each year, the Dr. Ed Alstat Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Eclectic Herb’s founder, a pioneer in botanical medicine. The 2025 recipient, naturopathic student Maggie Davison, embodies his spirit...

Celebrating 43 years of herbal wisdom, Eclectic Herb honors its legacy with a look back at five timeless favorites that helped shape the company’s story — Vitabiotic, Nettles, Lomatium Isolate,...

This travel journal recounts a recent journey to Cincinnati, the historic home of Eclectic Medicine. Highlights include a visit to the Lloyd Library — one of the world’s greatest botanical...

At Eclectic Herb, Earth Day is more than a date—it’s a daily practice. From being Oregon’s first certified organic herb farm to pioneering freeze-dried herbal remedies, we’re committed to sustainability...

This blog offers a virtual tour of the Eclectic Institute Library, a private collection curated by Chris Alstat in memory of her late husband, Dr. Ed Alstat. The library preserves...

Ed Alstat’s journey from pharmacist to naturopath led him to revolutionize herbal medicine by founding Eclectic Herb in 1982. Disillusioned with conventional pharmaceuticals, he embraced the healing power of whole...

This month, Eclectic Herb and Missionary RX Chocolates are hosting a giveaway to celebrate their shared commitment to naturopathic principles, sustainability, and wellness. Both Portland-based, woman-owned companies, founded by naturopathic...

Explore the life and legacy of Wooster Beach, founder of the Eclectic Medical Movement. Discover his pioneering approach to integrating herbal remedies with scientific principles, his influential publications, and the...

Join us in celebrating Eclectic Herb’s 42nd birthday! Discover our rich history, from our founding by Ed Alstat to our commitment to preserving herbal knowledge and creating potent, pure herbal...