The future of ethnopharmacology: A southern African perspective

Abstract

The traditional use of medicinal plants in southern Africa is widespread with over 80% of South African households using medicinal plants. A mushrooming of research into the study of medicinal plants in the developing world has occurred but most of Africa is lagging behind in research output despite long traditions of medicinal plant usage. A considerable investment in research infrastructure is required. © 2005 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.