The deregulation of dietary supplements and natural products marketing by the FDA has widened the natural products market in Europe and worldwide. While the discussion about the validity of the plant approach to nutrition and diseases treatment continues, the explosion of the use of whatever is considered "natural" has generated concern about effectiveness and danger.

Incorporating information ranging from regulatory aspects to clinical trial and vigilance, Herbal Medicines: Development and Validation of Plant-Derived Medicines for Human Health:

• Provides a reference model for those who would like to start the R&D process for a natural product
• Discusses fundamental issues in the development of traditional medicines for the benefit of human health
• Takes a sequential rational approach to the subject matter
• Brings awareness to the many problems facing the development of medicinal herbal products, such as quality control, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic issues

This book takes readers on a rational path for development of efficacious medicinal herbal products. It points out the many problems facing the development of these products, such as quality control, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic issues. It suggests areas where future developments should occur given healthcare needs and public health considerations.