Michael Heinrich re-elected to Society for Medicinal Plant and Natural Product Research

In his role at the GA (Society for Medicinal Plant and Natural Product Research), he co-leads this global society’s efforts to foster research in these important areas, improve networking and communication globally and to support especially younger researchers.

At its annual meeting the GA re-elected Michael Heinrich as one of the two Vice-Presidents of the society. Professor Judith Rollinger from the University of Vienna continues in her role as President. Professor Nikolas Fokialkis (University of Athens) was elected as a new Vice-President, and both the treasurer, Dr Bernd Roether (Neumarkt, Germany), and secretary, Dr Olaf Kelber (Mainz, Germany), continue in their roles. The wider board now includes representatives from Brazil, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland Switzerland, the USA, and Australia)

Medicinal plant research has become one of the strong drivers of academic excellence in many countries. It is a core basis for an evidence based used of such resources and overall is a globally flourishing field of research. It is a key area in many research programmes within pharmacology and pharmacy.

As highlighted by the American Botanical Council, the rise in medicinal plants and related healthcare products has risen dramatically during the pandemic as exemplified in the USA, where in 2020 they surpassed $10 billion for the first time, totalling an estimated US $11.26 billion (nearly € 10 billion / ca  £ 8.4 billion). This increase in the importance of herbal medicines calls for an increase in research activities of all aspects of medicinal plans research.

GA President Judith Rollinger stated : ‘I am delighted to continue my work with Michael Heinrich, who is not only a driving force whenever it comes to the promotion of natural products’ agenda in all aspects, but who dedicates his time and efforts to this endeavour, while sharing his enthusiasm for natural product research to our younger members.'

About the GA

Medicinal plants and natural products offer unique opportunities in healthcare and drug development. Thus, the Society for Medicinal Plant and Natural Product Research is dedicated to:

• Work towards a healthier life for humans and animals through developing a more evidence-based use of medicinal natural products
• Promote research and development in the broad field of natural products (see research areas below) The GA awards and travel grants could be mentioned here, to evidence also the special attention for your researchers and scientists from developing areas)
• Provide a platform for exchange of knowledge and ideas related to medicinal natural products (including our annual conferences, e-symposia, workshops, podcasts etc.)

Further information:

• The GA
• Professor Michael Heinrich staff profile