Table of Contents

Introduction to the Egyptian Herbal Monograph 2023

The Egyptian Herbal Monograph 2023 is an official scientific publication issued by the Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA). It serves as a comprehensive reference on medicinal plants commonly used in Egypt and provides standardized, research-based guidelines for their safe, effective, and quality-controlled use in the pharmaceutical and herbal medicine industries. This monograph series is designed to support professionals, researchers, and manufacturers by offering reliable scientific criteria for evaluating herbal raw materials and herbal preparations.

Several plants were documented in the 2023 release, including widely used medicinal species such as Eucalyptus globulus, Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek), Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), and Pimpinella anisum (anise).

Purpose and Significance

The main objective of the monograph is to establish a trusted scientific foundation for the use of herbal medicines in Egypt. By providing standardized information, the EDA ensures the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicinal plants used in both traditional and modern pharmaceutical formulations. These monographs support evidence-based herbal practice, guide proper dosage and preparation, and promote consistency across the herbal medicine supply chain.

Contents and Structure

Each monograph follows a uniform scientific format containing the following sections.

Botanical and Chemical Profile
This includes the plant’s scientific name, synonyms, taxonomic family, morphological description, and its key chemical constituents. The purpose is to ensure proper plant identification and authentication for medicinal use.

Therapeutic Uses
This section outlines proven and traditional medicinal uses supported by scientific studies and research findings. It specifies the health conditions for which the plant has demonstrated safety and effectiveness.

Preparation and Dosage
The monograph explains how herbal preparations should be formulated, such as infusions, decoctions, extracts, or tinctures. It also provides dosage ranges, administration methods, and recommended duration of use.

Safety and Precautions
Information is provided on adverse effects, contraindications, drug interactions, safety during pregnancy and lactation, and risks associated with overdose or improper use. This ensures the safe application of herbal treatments.

Preparation and Institutional Collaboration
The monographs are prepared through collaboration between the Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA) and the Specialized Scientific Committee of Herbal Medicines. Their combined expertise ensures authoritative, evidence-based standards for evaluating medicinal plants.