Crystal Star began in 1978 with cutting-edge formulas based on ancient principles. For over 40 years, our herbal blends have earned the trust of health food stores and wellness practitioners across the globe and we’re grateful for the thousands of happy, loyal customers who support us.
Our approach to holistic health and wellness begins with the belief that whole ingredients have the power to heal the whole person. Each blend we create combines the highest quality herbs and nutrients into powerful but gentle support for your body and mind.
How We Formulate
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Primary Herbs
(50%)
Works to support health and address main concerns.
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Secondary Herbs
(25%)
Supports the primary herbs and addresses secondary concerns.
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Catalysts
(15%)
Delivers the action of the primary herbs and increases absorption, assimilation and effectiveness of the formula.
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Complementary
(10%)
Helps balance acid and alkaline levels.
Company & Herbal Philosophy Questions
When did Dr. Linda Page start Crystal Star®?
Dr. Linda Page, a traditional naturopath and world-renowned herbalist, founded Crystal Star Herbal Nutrition in 1978. In 1996, Dr. Page received six of the first-ever United States Patents for herbal supplements for her female hormone-balancing formulas. Three of these formulas remain top-sellers today: Estro-G Balance, Women's Best Friend and Female Harmony.
How do Crystal Star products work?
Crystal Star focuses on the functional benefits of whole herbs formulated with secondary and tertiary supporting ingredients that the body uses to support its own natural balance. Formulation of our natural supplement blends includes:
Primary Herbs (50%) that work to support health and address main concerns.
Secondary Herbs (25%) support the primary herbs and address secondary concerns.
Catalysts & Transporters (15%) deliver the action of the primary herbs and increase absorption, assimilation and effectiveness of the formula.
Complementary Herbs (10%) to help balance acid and alkaline levels.
What are the benefits of using herbal blends vs. "concentrated" herbs?
Herbal blends generally use whole herbs which have not been altered beyond basic preparation technique to dry, ground and capsulate.
While extracts have been considered a more concentrated, and therefore more potent bang for your buck, it has now been shown that dried, unprocessed herbs can be 1000x more potent in ways that are just now being understood.
An herbal blend supports multiple body systems. We include herbs to address primary and secondary concerns, as well as the catalytic herbs that help deliver these nutrients to the body.
Using an herbal blend also helps minimize potential side effects or interactions associated with high doses of single herbs or concentrated herbal extracts.
Some of the products only offer small amounts of key ingredients. Are they still effective?
We believe that herbal quality and the combinations are the most important features of our formulas, so yes, they can be effective. Our formulas encourage your body to rebalance and regulate itself. Expertly blended whole herbs can do this over time for potent but gentle results.
Do any of your products include GMO ingredients?
All our products are non-GMO. We do not use genetically modified plant material in our formula specs or ingredient sourcing.
Why are some products gluten-free and some are not?
We are fully committed in providing high quality products to help our customers feel their best and lead a healthy life.
Our formulas feature gluten-free ingredients whenever possible making the majority of our products gluten-free. Unfortunately we cannot guarantee that micro-particle cross-contamination in our production facilities will result in less than 20 parts per million of gluten in our products.
In an effort to provide 100% transparency and adhere to our strict testing standards, Crystal Star has removed the “gluten-free” claim from most of our labels.
Can I use Crystal Star formulas together?
We receive this question all the time, and yes, our formulas can be used together. In fact, many customers use a variety of our products regularly. We recommend using 2-4 Crystal Star formulas at a time for the best results.
Can herbal formulas interact with other medications?
While drug-herb interactions are rare, they do happen, especially with anti-depressants.
We strongly suggest that you consult your health care professional prior to use if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking any prescription medications.
Can I take other types of supplements with your products?
Crystal Star products can be used with many other types of supplements such as multivitamins, minerals like calcium or magnesium, amino acids, and collagen. There are very few known interactions between herbs and other supplements.
How long should I take Crystal Star supplements?
Each supplement will suggest its’ own regimen timeline to follow depending on the formula. While many formulas have immediate results and can be taken as needed, others are cumulative and will require time for the benefits to become apparent. Because everyone has their own unique body and situation, this timeline can differ from one person to the next.
Do I take with food or on an empty stomach?
Unless specified in the product's Suggested Use, you can take Crystal Star supplements either with food or on an empty stomach. Many customers prefer to take our products with food for ease of digestion.
How long is a product potent after expiration?
We cannot guarantee product potency after expiration. There are many variables involved that are out of our control after shipment, including storage conditions, exposure to heat, light or humidity.
We do not recommend consuming expired product.
Safety, Product Testing & CA Prop 65
How do you ensure your products are safe?
We are proud of our legacy, our unique blended formulas, and our integrity. We will never compromise the safety and efficacy of our products.
Every Crystal Star supplement is thoroughly tested throughout the production process. Each botanical ingredient is tested upon arrival for identity, potency, and purity. We also test for microbes, contaminants, and heavy metals in accordance with the FAA, United States Pharmacopeia Convention (USP) and American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) standards.
Following production, each formula is given one final test to ensure quality assurance. Every lot undergoes analytical testing by an independent 3rd party lab to verify consistency across production batches.
Do you test for heavy metals?
Yes, our products are tested for heavy metals including lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic. Our products fall well within internationally-recognized standards in the industry (United States Pharmacopeia, (see page 12) and the American Herbal Products Association.
Why does my bottle have a CA residents warning on its label?
The warning that you’re referring to is Proposition 65 (aka Prop 65) which is a California right-to-know law that requires companies that sell products in California to inform the public about the presence, even at trace levels, of certain substances in the product they sell or use.
Prop 65 applies to metals such as arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury, which Prop 65 defines as reproductive toxins. Prop 65 also identifies arsenic, lead, and cadmium as carcinogens. These metals are found in soils all over the world and are both naturally occurring and a byproduct of human agriculture and industry over the centuries.
Because these metals contaminate soil worldwide, there’s a chance that all plants--even organically farmed ones--may be exposed to them as they grow. For that reason, companies that sell products manufactured from plants (including herbs) must test for toxins.
The limits set by Prop 65 are so low, we are compelled to include the warning on our labels. This does not mean that the product is unsafe. Though analysis of every Crystal Star product has shown that they fall well under the FDA, United States Pharmacopeia Convention (USP), and American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) standards.
For specific information on Prop 65 please visit: www.p65warnings.ca.gov/
Are your products safe to take during pregnancy?
No. Unless specifically stated on the product label, most Crystal Star products should not be used during pregnancy.
Blends like Female Harmony can be used for preconception but should be discontinued when pregnant. Please note that when you conceive, we highly recommend receiving prenatal care and working with an experienced doctor or midwife.
Specific Herb Questions
Is Kava kava safe?
Kava kava root has been shown to have calming, muscle-relaxing and stress-reducing properties and may help with anxiety and sleep. Though kava kava can be used safely in moderate doses, excessive use may be harmful, particularly if the kava is in the form of a concentrated, standardized extract.
Additionally, some standardized extracts or lower-quality products may contain kava stems or leaves, which have been linked to liver problems. The majority of people can enjoy the benefits of kava root taken in moderation. We don’t recommend any form of kava for people with a history of alcoholism, pre-existing liver problems, or who are taking prescription drugs.
Crystal Star formulas that contain small-to-moderate amounts of kava kava root include Bladder Support, Bladder Strength, CraveEze, Mood Lift, Muscle Relax, Night Caps, and Relax.
What drugs interact with St. John’s wort?
St. John’s wort is known for its mood-elevating properties but it can interfere with many prescription medications such as antidepressants, antibiotics, birth control pills, blood pressure medication, organ transplant medication, HIV medication, anticonvulsants, blood thinners, and asthma medication.
We strongly suggest any person taking prescription drugs or preparing for surgery consult with their physician before using St. John's wort or blends containing St. John’s wort.
Crystal Star formulas that contain small-to-moderate amounts of St. John’s wort include Mood Lift, Crave Eze, Tummy Control, Muscle Relax, Thin After 40, and Fat & Sugar Detox.
Does Licorice affect blood pressure?
Licorice is a widely studied natural antiviral, female hormone balancer and adaptogenic herb that can help address stress and adrenal fatigue. It’s also commonly used as a complementary herb in modest amounts in both Western and Eastern herbal blends.
However, you should avoid licorice if you have high blood pressure or are on blood pressure medications. In very high doses, licorice's constituent glycyrrhizin can cause elevated blood pressure.
Licorice is also not advised for pregnant women or people with a history of renal failure, as well as people who are on heart medication or steroid drugs.
Crystal Star formulas that contain small amounts of licorice include Adrenal Support, Beautiful Skin, Candida Balance, Estro G Balance, Female Harmony, Fibro Defense, Focus, GI Support, Herp Defense, Inflama Relief, Kidney Care, Prostate Support, Tummy Control and Women's Dryness Extract.
Is Oatstraw gluten-free?
Oatstraw (like oats) does not contain gluten like other grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. It does however contain a protein known as avenin that is well tolerated by most people with Celiac disease and those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. That said, avenin can bother a small minority of people with Celiac disease. For more information, https://www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/oat-straw.html
Are herbal laxatives with Cascara Sagrada safe?
Cascara is considered by most herbalists to be a non-habit-forming laxative which can be used safely as directed as needed for digestion support. Do not use if you have or develop diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain because Cascara Sagrada Bark may worsen these conditions.
Cascara Sagrada is present in small-to-moderate amounts in our Para Purge formula.
Where to Purchase
Where can I purchase your products in the U.S.?
Our products are available at food stores across the U.S. See the store locator for the store closest to you.
If you prefer online shopping, you can purchase directly from us and will be guaranteed the best price and the freshest product. Crystal Star is also available on Amazon.com or iHerb.com.
Are your products available in Canada?
We do not currently ship directly to Canada but are looking to add that option soon. You can buy our products on iHerb.com.
Please follow us on social media where we’ll post any news about coming to Canada.
Are your products available in countries outside North America?
Our products are sold on most of the major online platforms in China and are available for worldwide shipping at iHerb.com.
We are looking to add other countries so connect with us on social media and we will post any new news.
Shipping
What should I expect once I place my order?
If you provided an email when you made your purchase, you will receive an email with your Tracking Number once the order has been processed. Typical transit time may take 3 to 10 days depending on your location and the Carrier used.
How will my order ship?
If the address provided is a PO Box, or is less than 6 bottles, your order will ship through the United States Postal Service.
If the address provided is a street address and the order is 6 bottles or more, your order will ship through FedEx.
Please Note: Orders of $100 or more will require an adult signature upon delivery.
Why is the USPS Portal saying my order is ready for pick-up?
We don’t expect you to have to visit your local Post Office to get your order. This message is provided when your order has arrived at your local facility after the mail carrier has already left for their route. The Post Office is letting you know that they have it. You will not be required to pick up your order, it will be included in the next day delivery.
Why hasn't my order been delivered yet?
Holidays and weather can affect transit time. Please check your tracking number in the Carriers portal for reports and updates on when you can expect your delivery:
What if I didn't provide an email address?
Please call Customer Service with your order number handy. We’ll be happy to help you!
1-800-736-6015 Ext. 1
Subscriptions
Why set up a subscription?
When you know you want to keep using your favorite supplements, signing up for automatic recurring shipments takes one more “to do” off your list. You choose your timeline plus get a 10% discount! (Every month? Every other month? We can do that!)
How do I set up a subscription?
- Choose your product, and on that product page, click on “Save 10%” instead of “One Time Purchase”.
- Select how often you want the order to renew.
- Click on “Add to Cart” and the 10% savings is automatically deducted from the line item in your cart.
What if I want to skip my subscription shipment this month?
- Sign in to your account (top of website).
- Go to Subscriptions to pull up your subscription details.
- Click on “Edit Subscription” and a drop-down menu will provide you with your options.
- Note:You will receive an email “Renewal Notice” of your subscription 4 days prior to its’ processing. Please make your changes as soon as you receive this notice. If your order is less than 3 days out, it is too late to change (it is already in the system).
What if I want multiple products on different schedules?
- The best way is to set up separate subscriptions for each renewal frequency.
- For example: You want 2 bottles of product every month, and 1 bottle of another product every other month, set them up separately:
The 2 bottles each month is one subscription.
The 1 bottle every other month is another.
What if I want to add another product to my subscription?
- We are sorry, but the best way is to cancel your current subscription, then set up a new subscription to include the new product.
- Note:Your new subscription will ship as soon as you set it up. You may want to wait to create your new subscription until you’re ready for its’ shipment.
Having Trouble?
If you’re having any trouble with your subscription input, please call us at: 1-800-736-6015 Ext. 1
We'll be happy to help you!
Didn't find the answer?
Contact Crystal Star today!