Please post a link to a study that specifically supports the stated conclusions, namely:
(1) Herbal products have wildly ranging concentrations
(2) Herbal products are often loaded with bacteria
Furthermore, the study should meet the following criteria:
(1) Rather than over-emphasizing a specific case or cases, it should be a broad survey of the entire herbal products market. A mass-media-style sensationlistic story emphasizing anecdotal evidence is not acceptable.
(2) The study must have been published in a peer-reviewed scientific, academic or industry journal.
(3) The study should contain the source data listing all manufacturers and all of the products they make, along with the mean and standard deviations of the dosages therein.
(4) Source data for the mean and standard deviation should be provided for bacterial concentrations as well. Additionally, the exact types of bacteria should be identified.
(5) Opinions of the impact of the bacterial concentrations and dosage ranges should be provided by two independent medical or scientific professionals with appropriate credentials.
(6) The link must be provided by 9 PM pacific time, 9/14/02 (today).
Without a study that supports the stated conclusions, the conclusions are in dispute. I must therfore assert the contrary position, as follows:
Generally, herbal products have well-controlled concentrations for a given stated dose and are free of harmful bacteria.
Thank you for your time and consideration.