Introduction and background

We are delighted to announce the release of a Special Issue in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, featuring papers presented at the Joint Meeting of the 23rd International Congress of the International Society for Ethnopharmacology (ISE) and the 2nd International Congress of the African Phytomedicine Scientific Society (APSS) in 2024.

Natural products play a crucial role in drug discovery due to their vast chemical diversity and evolutionary optimization for biological activities. They serve as a rich source of lead compounds, providing inspiration for the development of novel drugs to treat a wide range of diseases. Natural products have historically yielded numerous pharmaceutical agents, including antibiotics, anticancer agents, and cardiovascular drugs. Furthermore, they often exhibit unique mechanisms of action, making them valuable tools for uncovering new biological pathways and drug targets. With advances in technology and screening methods, the exploration of natural products continues to be a fruitful avenue for discovering innovative therapeutics with improved efficacy and reduced side effects. As such, harnessing the potential of natural products remains a cornerstone in the quest for new and improved medicines.

Special issue content

This special issue showcases cutting-edge research and insights presented at the conference, focusing on the theme “The Footprint of Ethnopharmacology in Drug Discovery.” The papers cover a wide range of topics, including the exploration of traditional medicinal practices, the discovery of bioactive compounds from natural sources, and the development of novel therapeutic interventions.

Manuscript submission information

It is important to note that all potential contributors to this special edition would be required to present at the ISE-APSS 2024 Congress. Please note that the submission deadline has been set for the 28th of February 2025 and that all manuscripts need to comply with the aims and scope of the journal. Furthermore, all papers will follow the general rigorous peer-review process. Ethnopharmacological relevance is of the utmost important for submission in this Special Issue. Please visit the journal webpage for more information.

We invite readers to explore the diverse array of articles in this special edition, which promises to provide valuable insights into the latest developments and discoveries in ethnopharmacology.