Transforming Ancient Knowledge into Phytomedicines – a South African Perspective

South Africa is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world harbouring 10% of the world's total flora. Against this tapestry of biodiversity, traditional plant use is integral to various ethnic groups in the country with 60% of the population relying on African Traditional Medicines as their primary source of health care. These rich (yet fragile) indigenous knowledge systems present unique opportunities, both for basic and applied research in the commercialisation of herbal products. Several indigenous plants have been developed into commercial commodities, each with its own intricate history of success and challenges. The following examples will illustrate the complex process in transforming ancient knowledge into modern medicines:

• Hoodia gordonii emerged on to the international market place as a new natural slimming product. Unfortunately, the development process has been plagued by controversy, unscrupulous business practices and the lack of basic scientific studies which did not precede commercialisation initiatives.

• Pelargonium sidoides is a highly valued medicinal plant locally and internationally and presents one of the most fascinating stories in the development of a phytomedicine. This species represents a classic example of the legal implications surrounding bioprospecting and benefit sharing.

• Harpagophytum procumbens (Devil's Claw) is probably one of the most famous commercialized plants from southern Africa. The phytochemistry, bioactivity and biopharmaceutics have been well researched and formed a solid basis for commercial development.

• Sceletium tortuosum formulations recently entered the commercial market as a treatment for anxiety, stress and tension. In 2010 the South African Government granted the country's first ever integrated export and bioprospecting permit to a local pharmaceutical company who will market Sceletium in a joint venture with a neutraceutical company in the USA.