Herbal medicine, randomised controlled trials and global core competencies

Area of Science:

• Ethnobotany
• Pharmacology
• Public Health

Background:

• Traditional African medicine is widely used but lacks empirical efficacy data.
• Systematic reviews show limited scientific evidence for most studied African medicinal plants.
• Pelargonium sidoides is an exception, with extensive research including a Cochrane review.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the deficit in rigorous scientific validation of traditional African medicines.
• To establish sustainable research capacity for medicinal plants in Africa.
• To foster the discovery of new medicinal products from African flora.

Main Methods:

• Launched the Multi-disciplinary University Traditional Health Initiative (MUTHI) in 2011.
• Conducted needs analysis of clinicians and scientists across 14 African countries.
• Developed and implemented annual clinical trial methodology workshops and e-learning modules.

Main Results:

• Identified a significant lack of clinical trial methodology, knowledge, and experience among African health professionals.
• Established a platform for capacity building in research methodology for traditional health.
• Initiated the development of African capacity for discovering novel medicinal products.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for enhanced research capacity in clinical trial methodology for traditional African medicine.
• The MUTHI initiative is crucial for building sustainable research infrastructure and expertise in Africa.
• Strengthening research capacity will facilitate evidence-based validation and development of African medicinal plants for improved public health.