Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been a cornerstone of health and wellness for centuries, with herbal formulas playing a vital role in its practice. As TCM becomes more interconnected with the western lifestyle and culture , people with diverse backgrounds from all over the world are exploring its many benefits.
Incorporating TCM herbs into daily routines can be challenging for individuals with dietary restrictions. Many people are unaware that herbs aren’t always Kosher or Halal, and if they’re not, people who practice Islam or Judaism can’t take advantage of their benefits. Kosher and Halal certification provides a solution, ensuring that TCM herbs adhere to dietary standards set by Jewish and Islamic dietary laws.
Read on to learn what it means for an herb to be Kosher or Halal certified, as well as how this benefits the global community as a whole.
Understanding Kosher Certification
Kosher certification is a rigorous process that ensures that consumable products, including TCM herbs, meet the dietary standards outlined in Jewish law. To be Kosher certified, TCM herbs must be supervised by a rabbi who verifies that the products comply with Kosher regulations.
The certification process involves several key aspects. First, TCM herbs must not contain any ingredients derived from non-Kosher animals, such as pork or land mammals that do not have a cloven hoof or chew their cud. When it comes to aquatic animals, it must have scales and fins. For products that are not animal products, they can still be kosher certified.
Any equipment and facilities used to process and package herbs must be Kosher compliant, meaning they are not cross-contaminated with non-Kosher products. This way, there’s no chance of residue from non-Kosher products. Additionally, Kosher herbs must be stored and transported separately from non-Kosher products.. They must also be handled and stored in accordance with Kosher regulations, including proper labeling and date tracking.
Understanding Halal Certification
Halal certification, when used for herbs, is similar to Kosher certification, but it ensures that products are safe for Muslims to consume. To be Halal certified, TCM herbs must comply with several requirements that vary slightly from those required for Kosher certification. All non-poisonous plants are Halal, but the production methods involved in turning plants into herbal formulas may change that.
First, the herbs must not contain any ingredients derived from pigs or pork products. They must also not contain any intoxicating substances, such as alcohol or narcotics. These herbs must not come into contact with non-Halal substances during processing, packaging, or storage. In other words, there should be no cross-contamination at any point from the time the herbs are harvested to when the customer receives them.
The Benefits of Halal and Kosher Certification for TCM Herbs
Kosher and Halal certification provides several benefits for both consumers and TCM practitioners.
These important certifications allow Muslim and Jewish individuals to confidently incorporate TCM into their wellness routines, knowing that the products meet their dietary standards. Keeping Kosher or Halal isa key component of faith, and the certification validates that these herbs are safe to consume without breaking that faith. These certifications broaden the market reach for TCM practitioners and individuals who may otherwise have found TCM inaccessible due to their restrictions.
Kosher and Halal certification also improves the credibility of TCM herbs, demonstrating a commitment to quality and adherence to strict standards. While, of course, this is most paramount to people who keep Kosher or Halal, it displays the stringent criteria followed as part of the manufacturing process.
Finding Kosher and Halal Certified TCM Herbs
When searching for Kosher or Halal certified herbs, look for recognized certification symbols. These symbols ensure that the products meet the required standards and provide assurance of quality control.
Not sure what to look for? Some common symbols that signify Kosher certification, or “hechshers,” include “U” or “K” symbols, often accompanied by a certification agency’s logo. A “Halal” label, often accompanied by a certification agency’s logo, indicates Halal certification. The product may also have a crescent symbol. Certification symbols can appear in many places, including on official websites for manufacturers.
If you’re unsure, you can always contact manufacturers for certifications for each individual product, or look at the official website for the product you’re purchasing. If you’re receiving your TCM herbal supplements from a practitioner, be sure to ask which ones align with your dietary restrictions. Companies that offer herbs that are Halal or Kosher, like KPC, will be happy to help you make sure you’re getting what you need.
The Importance of Certification Agencies
Certification agencies play a necessary role in ensuring the authenticity of Kosher and Halal certification. Not just anyone can decide whether or not a product is Kosher or Halal.
Certification agencies verify that TCM herbs comply with Kosher or Halal regulations through regular audits and inspections. They provide Kosher or Halal certification to products that meet the required standards and monitor these certified products to ensure ongoing compliance.
Kosher and Halal Herbs Make TCM Accessible
Kosher and Halal certification provides a solution for people with unique dietary restrictions, allowing them to confidently incorporate TCM into their lifestyle without sacrificing their values.
TCM practitioners can expand their market reach by investing in Kosher and Halal products, which will allow them to better serve their communities and individual patients.
At KPC, we’re happy to provide Halal and Kosher herbs so TCM can be more accessible. Whether you’re Muslim, Jewish, or simply concerned with getting the purest and highest-quality herbal formulas, we’ve got you covered. View our catalog of Kosher and Halal TCM herbs today.
*Please note: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This article is not intended to suggest specific treatments for patients or that any supplements mentioned prevent or cure diseases or problems. Before taking any herbs, all patients should discuss their options with a licensed practitioner, including any other medications the patient is currently taking, as there may be contraindications between pharmaceuticals and herbs.
