VitaMix Labs

Although the economy may be down, 2009 has been a stellar year for herbal supplements!  Listed below, are the ten hottest herbal supplements to watch in 2010. These ingredients are perfect to keep in mind when starting a new supplement business.

#10 St. Johns Wort

Commonly used to treat depression, anxiety, and insomnia, St. Johns Wort has seen a surge of popularity in recent years.  Occasionally, it is also used as a digestive remedy.

#9 Ginseng

This Chinese herb is widely sought after by herbalists.  Although some people regard Ginseng as a remedy for a wide variety of illnesses, most people use it as a general tonic and energy booster.

#8 Milk Thistle

As ongoing research investigates the healing properties Milk Thistle, people throughout the centuries have claimed that it can speed liver repair.  Some even go so far as to say that it helps to prevent liver damage from alcohol or drug abuse, although these assertions have not been confirmed.

#7 Black Cohosh

Used as a remedy for symptoms of menopause, this herb is controversial among herbalists who are often divided about the duration of time that it should be taken.  In any case, it’s hardly surprising that this herb is seeing a spike in sales as “Baby Boomers” age.

#6 Echinacea

Taken to stimulate the body’s immune system, Echinacea has been found by some scientists to lessen the severity of the common cold.

#5 Saw Palmetto

A popular “men’s herb,” Saw Palmetto is used primarily as a treatment for enlarged prostates.

#4 Ginkgo

Sold only as an extract, ginkgo is used for a wide variety of ailments.

#3 Garlic

Not just a stinky topping for your pizza, garlic is an antioxidant and an antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agent.

#2 Cranberry

This supplement contains substances that can assist in ridding the body of the bacteria which causes urinary tract infections.

#1 Soy

While not exactly a true herb, this food crop still has some incredible therapeutic properties.  Current studies suggest that it may help women with symptoms of menopause and that young women taking it may have lower incidences of breast cancer later in life.