NATURAL HERBS CANNOT BE PATENTED

I'm writing about the not-so-thoughtful letter from State Sen. Julie
Ortman in the May 3 edition of the Winona Daily News.

The Federal Drug Administration has not approved the spice and
natural herb turmeric. However, my personal physician has recommended
that I use it to reduce inflammation caused by my arthritis.

Like turmeric, marijuana is a natural herb. The FDA does not approve
natural herbs. Natural herbs cannot be patented.

The pharmaceutical industry doesn't want us to use natural herbs that
cannot be patented. They prefer that we only use their very expensive
patented products.

The pharmaceutical industry has a lot of power and influence. They
make very generous donations to selected politicians.

Kirk Muse

Mesa, Ariz.