Editorial Standards
How we evaluate, grade, and publish evidence on herbs, supplements, and natural medicine.
Naturopathic Science follows an evidence-first editorial model. We prioritize clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses over anecdotal reports, traditional use claims, or manufacturer-sponsored research.
Content Requirements
Each evidence article must include:
- Plain-language summary
- Research context and methodology notes
- Cited peer-reviewed studies
- Mechanism of action overview
- Safety considerations
- Drug interaction notes where relevant
- Evidence rating
- Research gaps (what we don't know)
- Last updated date
- Medical disclaimer
Evidence Rating System
Strong
Multiple human clinical trials, systematic reviews, or meta-analyses support the topic with consistent findings across independent research groups.
Moderate
Some human research exists, but findings may be limited in sample size, mixed across studies, or context-specific. More research would strengthen conclusions.
Preliminary
Early human studies, animal research, in vitro research, or traditional-use evidence exists. Stronger clinical evidence is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
Insufficient
Evidence is too limited or inconsistent to support meaningful conclusions. Use is speculative or based on tradition alone.
Source Priority
- Systematic reviews and meta-analyses
- Randomized controlled trials (RCTs)
- Clinical practice guidelines from professional bodies
- Peer-reviewed pharmacology and safety studies
- Government or university medical sources
- Traditional use with plausible mechanism (noted as Traditional, not clinical evidence)
Language Standards
We use precise language to reflect evidence uncertainty:
- Studied for (not "treats" or "cures")
- May support (not "proven to")
- Early evidence suggests (not "evidence shows")
- Evidence is limited (not minimized)
- More research is needed (when true)
- Talk to a qualified healthcare professional (always)
Conflict of Interest Policy
Naturopathic Science does not accept payments from supplement manufacturers in exchange for favorable content coverage. Any affiliate or sponsored relationships will be disclosed clearly before any commercial recommendation. Editorial content is kept separate from commercial considerations.
Update Policy
All content includes a last updated date. We review evidence summaries when significant new research is published. Users can see the last review date on each article.