Q: How is it possible to produce shelf-stable herbal liquids without sugar, alcohol or preservatives?

A: Over 100 years ago, the formulation founders developed an all natural, water-based process involving very specific techniques for herb selection, handling, extraction, mixing, formulation and concentration. Although the essential technology remains the same, we have refined the process and the formulas to include a wide range of modern, condition-specific products. If you visit the Balestra & Mech laboratory and production facilities in Vicenza , Italy (and we hope you will!) you're welcome to come closer (but not too close!) to the heart of finest herbal production facility in the world.

Q: Do BALESTRA & MECH products require refrigeration?

A: Generally, no. Unopened containers can be stored at room temperature for up to a year. Many years of testing have determined that even after the seals are broken the products remain stable at room temperature. Nevertheless, as an extra measure of safety we do recommend (on the packaging) that consumers refrigerate the products after opening for the first time.

Q: How quickly must BALESTRA & MECH products be consumed after opening?

A: Most products have specific usage instructions that will lead to their consumption well within our freshness guidelines. We generally suggest that products be refrigerated after opening and consumed within 30 days to ensure freshness.

Q: Why is there caramel color in the products?

A: Although caramel color is a completely natural ingredient, some experts consider it to be unnecessary and would prefer to see it excluded. We include it in our products simply to maintain consistent product appearance. Because our quality standards demand that we constantly search for the best possible sources of supply of raw herbs, we often encounter seasonal and geographic variations that subtly influence the final color of the formulation. For that reason, we standardize the appearance of the products using very small amounts of natural caramel color.

Q: I've heard that Balestra & Mech manufactures and sells over 40 different condition-specific formulas in Europe . Why can't I find all of them in the store? Will you be expanding the BALESTRA & MECH line in the future?

A: It's true that we have a very wide range of products in Europe . Here in the US , we had to start somewhere so we created a selection of our most popular and effective products. We will certainly be expanding the US line in the future and we look forward to your input and requests as we decide which formulas to bring forward. Our full European line encompasses condition specific products including:

Q: What kind of scientific and clinical data do you have to support your claims of efficacy?

A: 100 years of practice, innovation and improvement allow us to guarantee the effectiveness of our products. Please visit the SCIENCE (linkto: science) section to learn more about our clinical evidence.

Q: I've heard that your products are organic? Why doesn't the packaging say so?

A: Yes, all of our herbs are organically grown or gathered wild. But organic certification takes time and resources and we haven't yet completed the process. We don't anticipate needing any modifications to our manufacturing process in order to qualify for organic certification.