Exploring the Experiences of Pharmaceutical Practitioners in the Development and Evaluation of Herbal Products as Alternative Therapy in Indonesia: Challenges and Strategies in Quality Control and Regulation
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Abstract
Herbal medicine is increasingly recognized as an alternative therapy, yet its quality control and regulatory framework remain challenging in Indonesia. Pharmacy practitioners play a crucial role in developing and evaluating herbal products, facing obstacles such as inconsistent regulations, varying quality standards, and public misconceptions. Despite the growing demand for herbal medicine, regulatory complexity and quality assurance issues persist. This study explores the lived experiences of pharmacy practitioners in herbal product development and evaluation, emphasizing the challenges and strategies employed. Using a phenomenological approach, qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews and field observations. The findings highlight three key themes: (1) regulatory and certification difficulties, (2) challenges in quality control due to raw material inconsistencies, and (3) the need for public education on herbal medicine efficacy and safety. Participants advocate for more standardized regulations and evidence-based approaches to herbal medicine evaluation. These insights contribute to policy discussions and the advancement of regulatory frameworks for alternative therapies. Future research should explore cross-regulatory comparisons to improve Indonesia’s herbal medicine oversight.
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