Biodynamics is believed to be the modern era’s oldest non-chemical agricultural movement. One
of the main principles of biodynamic farming is that the farm, like a human, is viewed and treated
as a whole, a self-sustaining organism. Austrian philosopher Rudolph Steiner, writing in the 1920s,
advocated companion planting and crop rotation, but also more common practices like sowing and
harvesting according to the lunar calendar, and esoterica such as the use of minute applications of
homoeopathic-style infusions of mineral, plant or manure extracts to heal and revitalize the soil.
Biodynamics has a global following, with participating groups and members mostly concentrated in
Europe. A trademark, Demeter, named for the ancient goddess of the earth, is used to indicate
certified farms where biodynamic principles are followed.