Research on traditional medicine in various countries has resulted in literature and data on this subject, but not all scientists would accept that data. There is a need for validation and standardization of phytomedicines and traditional medicinal practices so that this sector can be accorded its rightful place in the healthcare system. Because traditional medicine can be quite different from western medicine, it is difficult to know how to evaluate it. Finding methods for assessing the safety and effectiveness of traditional remedies has become a new challenge in recent years. The private sector can play a crucial role by developing economic activities related to herbal bioprospecting that puts to use the knowledge of local peoples while compensating them for their intellectual property.
Governments can promote such involvement.
But first it is necessary to achieve wider understanding of these issues and wider consensus. This requires addressing basic conceptual problems and testing practical solutions. There is a need to expand the debate to include direct stakeholders and the practitioners of traditional medicine, and to bring them together with representatives of the medical community, the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, intergovernmental organizations, etc. The conference will be designed to do just this. Attention will be given to the many dimensions of medicinal plants, traditional medicine, natural products, indigenous knowledge bioprospecting, and benefit-sharing.