Herbal medicines in pharmaceutical grade capsules, tablets to hit local market

Members of the Herbal Manufacturers Association of Ghana are making changes. They are converting liquid mixtures into modern medications.

These new forms include capsules, tablets, and repositories. This aims to improve effectiveness and standardize dosages for consumers.

The initiative follows training from KNUST’s School of Pharmacy. The training focused on modern herbal medicine production techniques.

Dr. Solomon Appiah Kubi, president of the association, shared insights. Manufacturers learned improved plant extraction methods to enhance their products.

"We are no longer just powdering plant materials," he said. "We are doing extraction and granulation for tableting or capsulation."

This process will help standardize dosages and compete internationally. Traditionally, most herbal medicines were produced as liquid mixtures.

While effective, these liquids often require time for users to see results. Some manufacturers expect improvements in their products soon.

Dr. Amuzu from Amuzu Herbal Clinic believes in better portability and cleanliness for medications. He noted that treatment durations could be reduced significantly.

In addition to extraction methods, manufacturers learned about preventing contamination. Dr. Appiah Kubi emphasized that this training is crucial for achieving ISO certification.

The Herbal Medicine Department at KNUST plans further training on documentation for ISO compliance. Prof. Isaac Kingsley Amponsah highlighted the need for re-engineering production facilities and workflows.

The School of Pharmacy at KNUST will continue monitoring the herbal sector's needs and designing supportive programs.