The research program is designed in consultation with the Saskatchewan Herb and Spice Association. Yarrow Stinging nettle. These herbs were selected for their increasing demand and their potential for high returns. Saskatchewan has an advantage in growing Echinacea angustifolia as its native to the province. It is estimated that over 600 ac. of E. angustifolia is being grown in the USA with potential for significant increases.
Milk thistle is native to Western and Central Europe and requires relatively long growing seasons.
Although it is not well known in North America, milk thistle is used extensively in Europe for liver and gallbladder ailments. It is believed that there will be a significant demand for milk thistle in Europe and North America in the near future. Feverfew is one of the fastest selling plant products in the USA with a drug identification number for specific therapeutic applications. Europeans use feverfew preferentially to aspirin for treating migraine headaches. Feverfew is being currently grown commercially to a limited extent and its market demand is difficult to determine.