To mark its 40thanniversary, AHPA will recognize landmark achievements, key milestones, and longtime members with celebrations online and in-person throughout the year. AHPA has been proactively developing industry standards since its inception, and many of its founding members are still active in the herbal community today.
“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, who has led the organization since 1999. “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.”
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AHPA’s first trade requirement was adopted in 1988, prohibiting trade in wild-harvested lady’s slippers. In 2006, AHPA led industry support for the establishment of a serious adverse event reporting law. In 2021, AHPA led a coordinated effort to prevent consumer confusion over the word “herbalist” by opposing use of the word 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.”
