About Natural Standard

Natural Standard was founded by clinicians and researchers to provide high quality, evidence-based information about complementary and alternative therapies. This international multidisciplinary collaboration now includes contributors from more than 100 eminent academic institutions.

For each therapy covered by Natural Standard, a research team systematically gathers scientific data and expert opinions. Validated rating scales are used to evaluate the quality of available evidence. Information is incorporated into comprehensive monographs which are designed to facilitate clinical decision making. All monographs undergo blinded editorial and peer review prior to inclusion in Natural Standard databases.

Databases

• Foods, Herbs & Supplements – Decision support tool with searchable evidence-based systematic reviews on functional foods, herbs, supplements, vitamins and minerals. Available in different reading levels and languages,  Monograph sections include: “The Clinical Bottom Line”, Safety, Efficacy, Dosing/Toxicology, Adverse Effects, Precautions/Contraindications, Interactions, Pregnancy and Lactation Data,Pharmacology/Mechanism of Action, Kinetics/Dynamics, Evidence table of individual studies (quality of study rating, statistical analysis). Clinical Trial Discussion/Methodology Critique, Tested Brands and Product Recalls.
• Health & Wellness – Scientific analysis on the available data for or against the use of therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic and other modalities, nutrition, special diets, exercise, fitness, and beauty regimens are available. Organized by demographic group Health Centres – Women, Men, Children, Adolescent and Senior.
• Comparative Effectiveness – Search by indication for comparative efficacy charts that itemize which therapies have scientific support for treating or preventing specific medical conditions. Easy to recognize letter grades A-F consolidate the level of evidence. Click on an indication for a detailed medical condition monograph.
• Interactions Checker – Advanced Interaction Checker computes potential concern amongst international drugs, herbs, foods, nutrient depletion and lab tests. Additional tools include a nutrition database, interactive calculators, medical dictionary, training programs, practitioner database, and continuing education opportunities
• Nutrient Depletions – Baby Foods, Baked Products, Beef Products, Beverages, Cereal Grains ans Pasta, Breakfast Cereals, Dairy and Egg Products, Ethnic Foods, Finfish and Shellfish Products, Fats and Oils, Fruits and Fruit Juices, Poultry Products, Spices and Herbs, etc.
• Brand Names – Investigate the ingredients inside of 1000s of international products. Product identification aid, alternative options and manufacturer contact information. Relates to full monographs for further details on individual components of multi-ingredient products
• Symptom Checker – This tool is intended for informational purposes and provider information before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
• Medical Conditions - Comprehensive medical condition monographs covering background, causes, prevention, treatment, conventional and integrative therapy options. Categorized by medical specialties including Neurology, Gastroenterology, Rheumatology etc. Provided with an Interactive Symptom Checker.
• Genomics & Proteomics – Extensive coverage of genetic diseases and concepts in genomics. Monographs on hereditary conditions, such as Down Syndrome, Tay Sachs, and Hemophilia, include risk factors, causes, diagnosis, complications, treatment, integrative therapies, and prevention. Important concepts in genomics include gene tests, genetic discrimination, and cutting-edge technology used in research.
• Enviroment & Global Health – The monograph is intended for informational purposes and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience.
• Dictionary- Advanced Interaction Checker computes potential concern amongst international drugs, herbs, foods, nutrient depletion and lab tests. Additional tools include a nutrition database, interactive calculators, medical dictionary, training programs, practitioner database, and continuing education opportunities
• Interactive Tools

User

1)      Healthcare

Patient safety, medication profile reconciliation, interaction screening, adverse effects monitoring, formulary, dosing, comparative efficacy, CE’s

2)      Manufacturing

Research and development, education, nutrient evaluation, product registration, labeling, claim substantiation, pharmacovigilance reporting.

3)      Retail

Staff and consumer education, trust, safety, ROI