Americans who distrust pharmaceutical companies have helped make homeopathic remedies a multi-billion-dollar industry, but critics say it needs more oversight. So-called "natural remedies" are hugely profitable due to increasing popularity. Before hearings began today, the FDA was flooded with public comments. The Center for Inquiry is a nonprofit advocacy group that's pushing the FDA for stricter regulation. Michael De Dora is Director of Public Policy, and he testified at today's first of two sessions.
Rob Stein, correspondent and senior editor on NPR's science desk, has been covering this issue.