Evidence-based botanical research: applications and challenges.
Use of herbal supplements is on the rise around the world, but limited data exist on the safety and efficacy of botanical products. Efforts to subject botanicals to rigorous scientific research began recently. There are many problems associated with botanicals research, however. These include procuring the study agents, selecting appropriate study method and clinical trial design, navigating through regulatory obstacles, and obtaining funding. Evidence-based botanical research can help to validate traditional uses and to facilitate new drug development. Concerted efforts of governmental agencies and industry are essential to ensure continuance of high-quality botanicals research.
Yeung
K Simon
KS
Integrative Medicine Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1429 First Avenue, New York, NY 10021, USA.
Gubili
Jyothirmai
J
Cassileth
Barrie
B
D000818:Animals; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004354:Drug Screening Assays, Antitumor; D015507:Drugs, Investigational; D019448:Ethnobotany / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008517:Phytotherapy / Q000639:trends; D028321:Plant Preparations / Q000627:therapeutic use
D015507:Drugs, Investigational; D028321:Plant Preparations