Natural Practitioner magazine honors industry icon Dr. Michael Murray for his leadership and contributions to naturopathic medicine.
At the age of 14, Dr. Michael T. Murray suffered a knee injury that continued to worsen over time. When he turned 18, he could barely walk and was in constant, severe pain.
He went in for exploratory surgery and found out his patellar tendon was almost completely ruptured. It was reattached with wires, and surgeons told him if he could walk without a noticeable limp, they’d consider the surgery a success.
“Well, a year and a half after the surgery, I could walk without a noticeable limp, but I still couldn’t put any real weight on the leg, so running, playing basketball, doing all the things that I really enjoyed physically were limited,” Dr. Murray said.
Dr. Murray’s father suffered from Bell’s palsy and had been seeing Ralph Weiss, ND, PhD, DC, a naturopathic physician based in Medford, OR. Dr. Weiss treated him with electroacupuncture, which helped “bring his face back to life.”
“Hey, if he can do this to my face, maybe this would really be helpful for your knee,” his father encouraged.
“I went and saw Dr. Weiss and the immediate improvement was miraculous. I would say, going in to see him, my left leg was probably about 50 percent as strong as my right leg and then leaving, it was probably 80 percent as strong. That night, I went out and played basketball and was just thrilled. It was unbelievable,” Dr. Murray said.
As he was preparing for bed that night, Dr. Murray decided to start learning about naturopathic medicine, nutrition, natural foods and healthier ways of living. He asked Dr. Weiss where to go to school to become a naturopath.
Dr. Weiss mentioned that Joseph Pizzorno, ND was starting a school near Seattle, WA that would ultimately become Bastyr University. He encouraged Dr. Murray to enroll.
“I did and I wanted to be a part of what Joe and the rest of the founders of Bastyr were creating. I filled all my prerequisites over the next two years and went to Bastyr and the rest is history,” Dr. Murray said.
Educational Path
According to Dr. Murray, one of the biggest influences occurred during his class orientation at Bastyr back in 1981.
Dr. Pizzorno asked the students “what each of them envisioned doing after graduating.” He also shared some of his philosophies toward naturopathic medicine. He was focused on “evidence-based scientific thought” to explain naturopathic modalities and their effectiveness.
“It was at that orientation that it occurred to me that if naturopathic medicine is based upon truth, then it should be able to stand up to scientific investigation,” Dr. Murray said. “I really enjoyed writing and learning about ways in which naturopathic medicine could stand up to scientific investigation. Science is simply the effort to understand our environment, and it applies to naturopathic medicine very well. We need to understand how these different aspects of healing impact the process as best we can and that is, in essence, the meaning of scientific investigation.”
One of his biggest career steps was during a weekend workshop on nutritional medicine held by Alan Gaby, MD. Dr. Murray described him as “an entertaining and dynamic speaker that likes to test the knowledge of his audience by asking questions.”
At the event, there were approximately 300 people in the audience, mostly physicians and students. During the first session, when Dr. Gaby started asking his trivia questions, it eventually turned into a dialogue between him and Dr. Murray.
“At the break, he made a beeline to me to ask me, ‘Who are you?’ Not because I was the smartest person in the room, it was because we spoke the same language. That was the beginning of a wonderful friendship,” Dr. Murray said.
Dr. Murray would later go on to work for Dr. Gaby and Dr. Jonathan Wright collecting articles from medical journals at the University of Washington Health Sciences Library.
“This opportunity put my fingers directly on the pulse of medical research into natural medicine. I would survey the medical literature looking for relevant articles on diet, nutritional supplements and other natural products to improve health and promote healing then make copies of these articles for our individual databases,” he explained. “I read fast, about 1,000 words a minute, so it was a perfect and efficient way for me to absorb bits of knowledge. And it wove in perfectly into my career areas of writing and product development.”
A Prolific Author
Dr. Murray is also a prolific author who has written more than 40 books throughout his career. His breakthrough work was A Textbook of Natural Medicine, co-authored with Dr. Pizzorno and is now in its fifth edition. The consumer version titled Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine is now in its third edition.
Dr. Murray started writing the textbook at the beginning of his third year at Bastyr. At the time, he was paying for school by working in a diagnostic laboratory as a serum separator. That role was eventually replaced by machines.
Out of a job, he spent a lot of time thinking about what he wanted to do. He also knew “the easiest access for a successful path is filling a need.” At the time, there was no real textbook for nutritional medicine or naturopathic medicine.
“I approached Dr. Pizzorno and asked him if he would like to work on a textbook with me. I think he was amused, to a degree, to be asked this by this third-year student, but he enthusiastically agreed to do it,” Dr. Murray said. “But I had to tell him there was a catch, Bastyr would have to pay me $400 a month. He laughed and the rest is history. The first edition of the textbook was published a few months after my graduation from Bastyr in 1985.”
Dr. Murray explained the process for writing the textbook involved writing chapters by hand and then on the weekends going to Dr. Pizzorno’s apartment to transcribe everything on the computer. A few months later, he got his own computer to start typing everything himself.
Initially, Dr. Pizzorno served as the editor and played an important role in helping Dr. Murray improve his writing skills and the whole process of approaching a subject. Other doctors and experts also submitted chapters, which Dr. Pizzorno also edited. Dr. Murray estimates he wrote more than 80 percent of the original version.
“I would generally work on chapters that paralleled my coursework. If I was taking dermatology, I would write the various chapters on dermatology. If we were studying cardiology, the same thing. It was quite helpful in providing me an easy way to stay on top of my studies, as well as work on the textbook and the data-gathering work with [Dr. Gaby] and [Dr. Wright],” Dr. Murray explained.
Natural Products to Market
According to Dr. Murray, after gathering a ton of information for his textbook, he realized there was “another need and path to success.” Many of these natural products he read about were not available in the United States.
His first job was working as a consultant for Thorne Research while still studying at Bastyr. He helped the company launch various groundbreaking products. After graduation, he wanted to reach a larger audience by working in the health food industry.
His most notable role was director of product development at Enzymatic Therapy, which became the vehicle for the first 15 years of his career to introduce many well-researched natural products to the U.S. market.
He later served as director of product innovation and science at Natural Factors from 2000-2017. In 2012, he was awarded the President’s Award from the Natural Products Association (NPA) for his contributions to promoting safe and effective natural products.
Dr. Murray is currently chief science advisor at iHerb, owns his own practice and started his own product line at Dr. Murray Natural Products.
Dr. Murray has also worked behind the scenes with manufacturers and ingredient distributors to help develop and launch many products. He was responsible for helping launch various supplements such as glucosamine sulfate, pharmaceutical-grade fish oil and curcumin.
In the 1980s, most of the research and development of natural products came from Europe, particularly with standardized herbal extracts such as Gingko biloba, St. John’s wort, grapeseed, silymarin and saw palmetto.
“I became a proponent of utilizing qualitative and quantitative analyses to standardize herbal products for their active or key markers. What standardization allowed is the ability to deliver a consistent and effective dosage,” Dr. Murray said. “I think that is one of the major contributions that I made at that time, being the champion and the key spokesperson on the value of standardized herbal extracts. The herbal industry was a dying industry until these standardized extracts hit in the mid-1980s. The introduction of these herbal products really fueled the health food and natural products industry and led to the herbal renaissance.”
*Side-bar start
Bastyr University Chancellor on Co-authoring Influential Textbook
Joseph Pizzorno, ND, is the chancellor of Bastyr University. He taught Dr. Michael Murray while he was a student at the university. The two co-authored the renowned A Textbook of Natural Medicine, which is now in its fifth edition.
Although listed as a co-author, Dr. Pizzorno said the idea was entirely Dr. Murray’s.
Dr. Pizzorno elaborated on the experience collaborating on the book, which he described as “foundational to the dramatic resurrection of naturopathic medicine and the establishment of integrative and functional medicine.”
“It extensively documented for the first time the scientific validity of natural therapies as a critical part of the health care system. Few are aware that it has sold over 100,000 copies in four languages all over the world,” Dr. Pizzorno said.
He explained Dr. Murray pitched him with the idea to write the first modern textbook for natural medicine. Dr. Murray discovered a huge amount of research on the validity of natural medicine and compiled several filing cabinets worth of studies.
“After perusing them, I realized he was right and we decided to compile the research into a format readily available for doctors,” Dr. Pizzorno said. “For the first 10 years we published the textbook in a seven-ring binder. Every quarter we would send out new chapters to subscribers as we completed them. After 10 years the textbook has grown to two volumes, 2,000 pages and over 10,000 research citations.”
*Side-bar end
What Does the Industry Think?
“Mike was one of my students at Bastyr University. He was outstanding, He quickly distinguished himself by his intelligence, ability to deeply dive into published medical research and articulate key concepts of what I entitled, Health Medicine. Mike is not only one of our most distinguished graduates, he also has severed several times on the University’s Board of Trustees. While he has taught classes, his biggest contribution is how inspirational he has been for students.”
-Joseph Pizzorno, ND, Chancellor, Bastyr University
“We met at Bastyr University when we were students. We then each spent decades pursuing our careers. Fast forward to 2026 and our paths crossed again as Board Members of Bastyr. It is a joy to work with him, he is positive, enthusiastic and very kind. Mike’s career has spanned clinical practice, educator, author, business owner and the supplement industry. I can think of no other ND who has impacted the natural medicine sector in the way Mike has over so many years.”
-Jane Guiltinan, ND, Dean Emerita, Bastyr University
“I studied Dr. Murray’s books during nutrition school. What a thrill it was when he agreed to be the closing keynote speaker at NANP’s annual conference in 2018! Meeting him in person and learning from him in real time was one of the highlights of my nutrition career. Dr. Murray is one of the most gracious and engaged speakers with whom I’ve worked over the past 20 years at the NANP. Even though he is very high profile, he is incredibly humble and responsive. He shares his knowledge so very generously. Honestly, he’s the epitome of class, and we hope to work with him again soon.”
-Nicole Hodson, NC, BCHN, CDSP, Executive Director, National Association of Nutrition Professionals
“Mike and I become colleagues and friends during my 10-year tenure as the executive director for both the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges. Over the past 24 years, I have learned much about the nutraceutical business from Mike, but more importantly, I deeply appreciate his purpose, and presence in the realm of health and wellness for both people and the planet. And, despite all his many achievements, Mike remains grounded to his roots as a physician, friend and father. What you see is what you get, and I know I can always rely on him.”
-Karen Howard, CEO and Executive Director, Organic & Natural Health Association
“I first met Dr. Michael Murray at Natural Products Expo West in 2022. From our very first conversation, it was clear that he is incredibly knowledgeable, open-minded and genuinely committed to advancing the nutraceutical industry. Working with him has been both inspiring and rewarding. He has a unique ability to take complex scientific concepts and help shape them into clear, meaningful messages that resonate with both industry professionals and consumers. His strategic guidance has helped us better communicate the value of our research while staying grounded in scientific integrity.”
-Morris Zelkha, Founder and CEO, TriNutra
“I worked with him when I was in the natural foods grocery store concepts, first Henry’s/Boney’s then when we started Sprouts Farmers Market. I would bring him into the stores to work with our customers when he was with Natural Factors and Enzymatic Therapy! Also was able to get him PR for his education. To Michael, your greatest legacy is not simply the books you’ve written or the science you’ve shared—it is the trust you’ve earned, the people you’ve inspired, and the healthier world you’ve helped create. Thank you for leading with both wisdom and heart.”
-Patti Milligan, PhD, RD, CNS, Travel & Resilience Nutritionist
“I first met Dr. Murray in the early 1990s when I started attending his lectures at nutrition industry events. I was a vitamin and mineral biochemistry-minded guy and had very limited clinical experience with patients. I learned a great deal from Dr. Murray about when and how to incorporate botanical extracts and cutting-edge nutraceuticals (in addition to fundamental vitamins and minerals) to protocols to address specific patient needs. I was very fortunate to get to participate in many lectures and public relation events with Dr. Murray. His trait that I find most remarkable is how he cares about helping others. He looks for opportunities to help those he works with succeed. Whether it’s giving advice or proofreading brochures or slides or creating platforms for them to share their story or message. I’ll be forever grateful.”
-Richard Passwater, Medical Education Director, Biosil
“I first met Dr. Murray in 1997 when he was a professor at Bastyr University, where I thoroughly enjoyed his coursework on evidence-based natural medicines, especially botanicals. I had already become familiar with his work years earlier through his publications. I’ve always appreciated his rigorous, evidence-based approach to natural medicine. Dr. Murray has provided significant and lasting contributions to naturopathic medicine and natural medicine as a whole and will continue to influence practitioners and the public for generations. It is also a pleasure to serve alongside him on the Bastyr University Board of Trustees, where he consistently offers thoughtful insights and calm wisdom.”
-Luke Huber, ND, MPH, MBA, CAE, Vice President, Scientific & Global Affairs, Council for Responsible Nutrition
A Miscellaneous Q&A With Dr. Michael Murray
In this brief Q&A, Dr. Michael Murray also answered several miscellaneous questions from Natural Practitioner on various topics such as his greatest achievements, health regimen and future projects.
NP: Can you elaborate on your Thrive blueprint? How can other practitioners and patients utilize it?
Dr. Murray: It is a free program that I developed as a gift for everyone. It consists of a short video and worksheet designed to require only 10 minutes of your time each day for 21-days. The program represents the insights and practical applications that I have learned over my lifetime of discovery in how to live life to its fullest. It is a crystallization of a lifetime of practical steps based upon what has influenced me, both what I have learned from others as well as through my own life experience. It is available on my website, doctormurray.com.
NP: What are some of your greatest achievements?
Dr. Murray: There are certain achievements that stand out including many outside of my professional life. But I would say the honor that has meant the most to me professionally was being one of the two people chosen by my classmates at Bastyr to speak at our commencement. Going to Bastyr was perhaps the biggest decision of my life. Becoming a naturopathic physician at that time included going through a process of learning to love and be loved by a group of strong, contrarian individuals with some common beliefs but different backgrounds, personalities, beliefs, passions and everything else. It was an amazing process for me. It filled me with a deep love and passion for getting out there and promoting naturopathic medicine.
NP: What is your health regimen? What do you do to stay healthy?
Dr. Murray: I do it all. I have a positive mental attitude, healthy lifestyle, exercise daily, get quality sleep, eat a clean/healthy diet, get regular body work and take over 30 different dietary supplements each day.
NP: What advice do you have for future practitioners and other professionals in the industry?
Dr. Murray: As a physician, I think it is important to walk the talk. Be congruent in words and action. It sends a message not only to your patients or customers, but to every cell of your body. It builds self-esteem and expresses self-love.
NP: Do you have any future/upcoming projects you’re working on?
Dr. Murray: I am still putting in time and effort in moving all of my current projects forward. At this point, I am focused on legacy and working hard to have made a difference in the world and in the lives of the people that I care about.
