RidgeCrest Herbals 2026 Health Industry Hero Picks

RidgeCrest Herbals 2026 Health Industry Hero Picks

RidgeCrest Herbals 2026 Health Industry Hero Picks: Top Wellness Products to Watch

 

Each year, we proudly dedicate space in our almanac to celebrate the brands, products, and trailblazing individuals that inspire us most. Each month, we shine a spotlight on more than just our favorites, but what we consider true heroes of the natural product and health industry.

We love to highlight companies, people, and products that align with our values and mission, sharing a dedication to wellness, sustainability, and empowering individuals to lead healthier lives. By shining a light on them, we aim to foster community and collaboration within the natural health world.

At the heart of it all, we believe in the power of authentic word-of-mouth recommendations and the joy of sharing trusted favorites with those who matter most—our customers and community. It’s our way of helping to build a stronger, healthier community—together. 

Here are our picks for 2025:


Recommended By:

Brand/Person

 Why We Love Them

Will Dennis McKenna Dennis Jon McKenna is an American ethnopharmacologist and a research pharmacognosist, He is the brother of well-known psychedelics proponent Terence McKenna. McKenna worked with natural product companies including leading product development for Aveda. A champion for natural healing, building awareness around natural medicine and co-author to several books, including, Botanical Medicines: the Desk Reference for Major Herbal Supplements, and The Invisible Landscape with his brother Terence.
Amanda Hatch Hatch creates beautifully designed, science-backed products to improve sleep. I use their Sunrise Alarm Clock, which simulates a gentle sunrise to wake you calmly. It also offers soothing nighttime sounds and dimmable light for a screen-free bedtime routine. Founded by Ann and Dave to solve real-life sleep struggles, Hatch was named a Great Place to Work in 2024.
Matt Michael McGuffin Michael McGuffin led the AHPA from 1999 until his passing in 2025, after serving on its Board for a decade. His influence shaped the herbal industry and inspired many, including encouraging me to run for the Board in 2023. Like the Johnny Appleseed of herbal wisdom, Michael left growth wherever he went. We mourn his loss with deep gratitude for his lasting impact.
Shae Maria Sabina Maria Sabina (1894-1985) was a Mazatec Sabia (wise woman), mushroom priestess, healer, and poet who lived in the remote mountains of Mexico. She came from a long line of curanderos, known for her use of psilocybin mushrooms in spiritual/healing ceremonies. One of the first indigenous shamans to share this sacred medicine with outsiders, she was dedicated to advocating mushrooms as sacred tools and medicine.
Britt Roy Upton Roy Upton’s dedication to the herbal industry has paved the way for a deeper understanding of plant medicine. As a respected herbalist and educator, his contributions in research, advocacy, and quality standards have transformed the field. Upton’s work elevates the importance of sustainable practices and deepens our connection to nature’s healing power. His legacy continues to inspire countless herbalists to honor tradition while embracing innovation.
Josh GDQ Games Done Quick is a video game speedrunning marathon event with the goal of raising money for charities such as Doctors Without Borders and the Prevent Cancer Foundation. These events are streamed online and showcase a wide range of games, old and new. Players show off their skills with precision gameplay and interesting mechanics, all while fostering a sense of community and supporting charitable efforts.
Chris Tieraona Low Dog Dr. Tieraona Low Dog is a renowned physician and author, deeply committed to herbal medicine, dietary supplements, and integrative health. With over 54 scientific articles and authoritative books, she stands as a trusted resource. Dr. Low Dog is celebrated for her compassionate approach and ability to bridge traditional wisdom with modern science, guiding countless individuals toward natural wellness. Explore her work at DrLowDog.com
Nichole Mary Hunt Mary Hunt, nicknamed "Moldy Mary," was instrumental in the mass production of penicillin. In 1943, while at an agricultural market in Peoria, Illinois, she spotted a discarded cantaloupe covered in yellow mold. Taking it to her lab for analysis, she identified Penicillium chrysogenum, a strain that yielded far more penicillin than previous ones. This discovery made large-scale production possible, revolutionizing antibiotics and saving countless lives.
Allison The Organic Skin Co The Organic Skin Care Company creates amazing products using certified organic ingredients, regeneratively farmed in India. They use sustainable packaging, and a tree is planted with every purchase. I discovered them in fall 2025 and love their cleansers, face oil, and creams. With my sensitivity to strong scents, I appreciate their mild, fresh smell and lack of added fragrances.
Haley Traditional Medicinals Traditional Medicinals is one of my go-to herbal remedy brands. They make affordable herbal supplement blend teas with dosages listed. I keep quite a few of their teas on hand in my medicine cupboard for various needs, including their cycle tea, relaxation blend and ThroatCoat for when I am sick. I love purchasing from a fellow B Corporation, too. 
Birdy EarthHero EarthHero is a company that gathers B-corp companies dedicated to building a more sustainable world in one place. They have home, kitchen, cleaning, beauty, kids, pets and many more options. It's great knowing that you are supporting ethical and responsible companies, making it much easier to shop sustainably!
Meg Garden of Life Garden of Life is a brand that specializes in whole food-based supplements. I use their kids' probiotic & vitamin D gummy. I love that it's not a gummy covered in sugar but tastes great. I trust this company for its clean, organic products that are free from artificial additives. Garden of Life offers a wide range of vitamins, probiotics, and protein powders. 

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2025 Health Industry Hero

Check out our 2025 picks!

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About The Author

Ridgecrest Herbals was incorporated in 1994 and rebranded in 1998. Now a B-Corp Company, RidgeCrest Herbals offers over 20 award-winning products, emphasizing natural solutions from various herbal traditions. Ridgecrest is committed to our mission of helping people to live happier, healthier, more active lives by embracing herbal remedies and health freedom. Ridgecrest proudly stands on our values: Eclectic, Innovative, Effective, Trust, Fun, and Caring.
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