HerbalGram now accepts display advertising for herbal products and services. Phoenix-based Virgo Publishing will coordinate advertising sales on behalf of ABC.

“For 17 years HerbalGram has been the leading publication dealing with research, regulation, and related issues on herbal medicine,” said Mark Blumenthal, founder and executive director of ABC. “During this time we never accepted advertising for commercial herb products. Given the general climate surrounding herbs in the U.S., the ABC board decided it is time for a new policy on advertising.”

Blumenthal, who is also HerbalGram editor/publisher, emphasized that the editorial integrity of HerbalGram will not be altered in any way. The journal has a reputation for strong credibility and high journalistic ethics. Its commitment to quality content will be enhanced by the increase in revenue through the acceptance of advertising. Ads may be refused if they do not meet ABC standards of providing credible information about herbal products.

“The additional revenue will allow us to continue our mission of educating the public about the safe and responsible use of botanical medicines. The public needs and wants us to continue to provide information it can trust about herbs. Advertising provides new opportunities for reputable manufacturers and ourselves,” said Wayne Silverman, PhD, ABC’s chief administrative officer. “As our emphasis has been on education, rather than commerce, we are delighted that we have found a knowledgeable partner to guide us into this new territory. Working with Virgo Publishing also will help to keep the boundaries clear between our editorial vision and our commercial obligations.”

Virgo Publishing, producers of a variety of industry magazines and the SupplySide trade shows, will contact past supporters of ABC as well as clients of Virgo Publishing to build support for the program. Display advertising debuts in this issue. For information about advertising in HerbalGram, contact Jon Benninger at (480) 990-1101, ext. 1108, or by email .