Positive Health Online

Abstract

Kraft , Medizinische Universitats-Poliklinik Bonn, Germany writes that herbal medicinal products are very popular in Germany, with patients and physicians. However, very little tends to be known regarding the effects of drug law upon herbal products .

Background

Methodology

Results

The author elaborates upon the definition of herbal medicinal products, the importance of the terms quality, efficacy and safety, which products are available only at a pharmacy or in other stores. Terms including review procedure, authorisation procedure, registration and traditionally used herbal medicinal products are explained in detail. The author also discusses the special problems of non-European drugs with no marketing authorisation in Germany, and provides a short outlook for developments in Europe and worldwide.

Conclusion

References

Kraft K. Herbal medicine products and drug law. Forschende Komplementarmedizin 6(1): 19-23 Feb 1999.

Comment

Please also see Michael McIntyres comments in the Research Updates and Letters sections of Issue 44 (Sept 99) regarding herbal medicines in the UK. He says in part "UK herbal practitioners are now engaged in the process of exploring statutory-self regulation with the Department of Health and there is a good chance that soon herbal practitioners like osteopaths and chiropractors will be state registered. This would mean that more powerful plant medicines could be restricted to those with adequate training to make use of them. This after all is the arrangement for orthodox drugs many of which are prescription only medicines, while many others remain freely available over-the-counter without prescription."