In the expansive realm of healthcare, the intersection of pharmacovigilance and the safety of herbal medicines has carved out a crucial sphere of study, particularly in regions where traditional practices coexist alongside modern medicine. A recent cross-sectional study conducted in Tanzania sheds light on healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding these aspects, making a significant contribution to the global discourse on healthcare safety and efficacy. This research, led by Mssusa et al., serves as a critical examination of how well-equipped healthcare providers are to handle the complexities surrounding herbal medicine in a rapidly evolving medical landscape.
The study focuses on pharmacovigilance—the science related to the detection, assessment, understanding, and prevention of adverse effects or any other drug-related problems. This vital area of research specifically evaluates herbal medicines, which have gained popularity for their perceived natural safety. However, this study emphasizes that the natural origin of these medicines does not inherently guarantee their safety or efficacy, as adverse reactions can and do occur. Thus, understanding how healthcare professionals navigate this terrain is paramount, especially in a country like Tanzania, where herbal medicine remains a staple for many individuals.
In their research, Mssusa and colleagues utilized a cross-sectional design, targeting a diverse group of healthcare professionals across selected regions in Tanzania. This approach allowed the researchers to gather quantitative and qualitative data, providing insights into the current state of awareness and understanding of pharmacovigilance among these practitioners. The survey comprised questions that explored various dimensions of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the monitoring of herbal products and medicinal plants frequently used in clinical settings.
Results from the study indicated a concerning gap in knowledge among healthcare providers regarding the principles of pharmacovigilance as it pertains to herbal medicines. While many practitioners acknowledged the use of herbal remedies in their practice, an alarmingly high percentage could not accurately identify or report adverse drug reactions associated with these products. This deficiency highlights an urgent need for enhanced training and education on the subject, which could empower healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety while managing herbal treatments effectively.
Moreover, the study illuminated the attitudes healthcare professionals hold toward herbal medicines and their recognition of the necessity for systematic monitoring. Although many healthcare providers expressed positive sentiments about the advantages of herbal remedies, their ability to critically evaluate these products’ safety and efficacy was lacking. The dichotomy presents a challenge: how to embrace the traditional practices of herbal medicine while safeguarding public health through rigorous pharmacovigilance protocols.
One of the most striking findings involved the discrepancy in attitudes between varying levels of healthcare professional. Nurses and clinical officers displayed a more favorable attitude towards herbal medications compared to doctors, who exhibited greater skepticism and concern regarding their safety. This divergence prompts further inquiry into the educational pathways and professional training that shape these perceptions and behaviors regarding non-traditional medicine.
Further analysis revealed that many healthcare professionals reported a lack of access to reliable information regarding herbal medicine. This knowledge gap can hinder practitioners in making informed decisions about treatment protocols, potentially compromising patient safety. It raises the critical issue of resource availability in Tanzania, suggesting that investment in robust educational frameworks and access to credible research is essential for improving the integration of herbal medicine into standard healthcare practices.
The implications of this research extend beyond Tanzania, as the findings could serve to inform global pharmacovigilance practices related to herbal medications. Given the increasing globalization of healthcare and international travel, the use of herbal remedies has become a widespread phenomenon. Thus, enhancing the knowledge base of healthcare professionals worldwide is necessary to prevent adverse reactions and ensure comprehensive patient care that respects diverse cultural practices.
Moreover, stakeholder engagement is crucial in addressing the challenges identified in the Tanzanian context. Policymakers, educational institutions, and healthcare organizations must collaborate to develop continuing education programs that augment the pharmacovigilance skills of healthcare professionals. These initiatives should be tailored to enhance understanding of the risks associated with herbal medicines while promoting appropriate use and reporting of potential adverse effects.
As public interest in herbal medicine continues to grow, awareness campaigns targeting both healthcare providers and the general population are essential. The research underscores the importance of creating an informed community that recognizes the benefits and risks associated with herbal treatments, enabling patients to make better decisions regarding their health and well-being.
In conclusion, Mssusa et al.’s cross-sectional study marks a pivotal moment in the discourse on pharmacovigilance and herbal medicine safety. By outlining the knowledge gaps, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals in Tanzania, the study lays the groundwork for much-needed research and policy reform. The findings compel both national and global health sectors to prioritize the establishment of frameworks that protect patient safety while acknowledging the value of traditional herbal practices.
The future of healthcare hinges on the ability to meld traditional wisdom with scientific rigor, thereby creating a safe and effective ecosystem for all therapeutic interventions. As we move forward, the lessons drawn from this research will be invaluable in shaping the landscape of pharmacovigilance in herbal medicines, ultimately fostering a health environment that is informed, safe, and holistic.
Subject of Research: Pharmacovigilance and herbal medicines safety
Article Title: Pharmacovigilance and herbal medicines safety: a cross-sectional study of healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes and practices in selected regions of Tanzania
Article References:
Mssusa, A.K., Kagashe, G., Maregesi, S. et al. Pharmacovigilance and herbal medicines safety: a cross-sectional study of healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes and practices in selected regions of Tanzania, 2021. BMC Complement Med Ther (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-025-05226-w
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12906-025-05226-w
Keywords: Pharmacovigilance, herbal medicine safety, healthcare professionals, Tanzania, traditional medicine, adverse drug reactions, education, public health, patient safety.
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