Best practice in research: Consensus Statement on Ethnopharmacological Field Studies - ConSEFS
Michael Heinrich1, Andreas Lardos2, Marco Leonti3
1Research Cluster 'Biodiversity and Medicines'/Research Group 'Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy', UCL School of Pharmacy, University in London, 29-39 Brunswick Sq., London WC1N 1AX, UK.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology
|August 19, 2017
Summary
This study introduces the Consensus Statement on Ethnopharmacological Field Studies (ConSEFS) to standardize research on traditional plant uses. It provides a checklist for best practices in designing, conducting, and reporting ethnopharmacological studies.
Area of Science:
- Ethnopharmacology
- Ethnobotany
- Traditional Medicine
Background:
- Ethnopharmacological research investigates traditional uses of plants and natural substances.
- Existing methodologies lack standardized quality and reproducibility.
- Need for defined best-practice guidelines in field studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish best-practice guidelines for ethnopharmacological field studies.
- To develop a consensus statement (ConSEFS) for research on medicinal and food plants.
- To include historical approaches in ethnopharmacological research standards.
Main Methods:
- Initial draft development by a core group.
- Community-wide feedback through web consultation and workshops.
- Incorporation of responses from researchers and stakeholders.
Main Results:
- Development of a comprehensive checklist for ethnopharmacological studies.
- The checklist covers best practice for study design, implementation, and recording.
- Extensive feedback received via online platforms and conferences.
Conclusions:
- Authors must be aware of best practices before conducting ethnopharmacological research.
- ConSEFS provides the first community-wide guidelines for conducting and reporting such studies.
- The guidelines require ongoing updates, practical application, and peer review.
Keywords:
Consort (adaption)Ethnopharmacological field studiesHistorical studiesMedicinal plantsTraditional medicineMore Related Videos
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