Ghana’s traditional healers rely on various medicinal species for approximately 70% of their health care. 

This practice aligns with the global trend; therefore, the global herbal medicine market is expected to be $271.4 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 7.4%. This shows a significant opportunity to explore Ghana’s medicinal herbs and introduce this sector to international markets.

Ghana is home to a massive diversity of medicinal plants, with 1,800 to 2,000 species growing. Due to their therapeutic properties, these plants are essential components of traditional medicine. They significantly contribute to the country’s healthcare system. Ghana extensively cultivates a few of these plants for medicinal purposes.

Furthermore, there are many more, each with a distinct quality. More importantly, while individual medicinal herbs have specific uses, combining them thoughtfully can create a holistic “pharmacy” of natural remedies. A wiser alternative is to create blends of herbal combinations by pairing different, diverse herbs based on their complementary properties. For example, antibacterial neem leaves combined with antimalarial bitter leaves work well to fight off infections. 

Other formulations, such as topicals, tinctures, infusions, or teas, can enhance the medicinal benefits. Imagine a herbal remedy that combines turmeric’s antioxidant qualities with ginger’s anti-inflammatory benefits, and there is more to research and innovate.

Enoch Keitu’s interest in herbal medicine began in childhood. He was influenced by his mother, a traditional birth attendant. This built into him the urge to learn traditional healing techniques.  After completing professional qualifying examinations in plant medicine, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in herbal medicine from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). At the age of 26, he became a certified medical herbalist. 

Enoch opened a mobile clinic to help extend healthcare services to such communities. He offers free health sensitization, screenings, and referrals. He also manages some of them using certified herbal medicines from the Centre for Plant Medicines Research1 for a subsidized fee. He is an inspiration for Ghana’s young generation. More people in Ghana want this type of organization, which will provide them with health care benefits.

Wariquana has been actively producing effective herbal medicine for a significant period. He has shared his thoughts with us, stating that while the industry will flourish with proper planning and management. The market for herbal medicine in Ghana is quite vast. Ghana’s herbal medicine market was valued at almost $7.8 million in 2010.

Creating new organizations and taking innovative steps will help boost Ghana’s herbal medicine market. If new, established certified organizations emerge to provide proper education to become specialists in herbal medicine, they will help increase the growth of this industry. At least those with certified education can serve the rural population effectively. 

Certified herbalists can work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice, providing herbal treatments and consultations. They can also engage in research to develop new herbal medicines and validate traditional remedies. Poor people in rural areas can at least have access to an immediate cure for minor or recurring problems.

Investors can establish this type of organization. They can provide scholarships with specific terms and conditions. This will allow them to achieve their ultimate goal of attracting brilliant minds who can contribute to or support Ghana’s medicinal herb sector after completing degrees with scholarships. 

Notably, recipients will return to Ghana after graduating to continue contributing to the community. This scholarship will also serve as a form of financial aid for students. Additionally, upon their return to Ghana, they will form a team, collaborate, and become partners in the organization.

The global herbs and spices market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.6% from 2024 to 2034. It is anticipated that the market will follow an inclining curve, rising from USD 171,563.1 Mn in 2024 to USD 244,124.7 Mn by the end of 2034. 

This country is home to many medicinal plants. Plants like Neem, Moringa, and Hibiscus grow better in its climate and soil. Most medicinal herbs grow in the tropics, so Ghana offers an ideal climate environment for their cultivation. 

Many regions in Ghana have fertile soils that form the choice habitats for most medicinal plants. Many of the population rely on herbal medicine to answer their primary health needs, providing a ready local market. 

The government has supported the herbal medicine industry, mainly through policies to integrate traditional medicine into the national healthcare system. With its long history of using plants in conventional medicine, Ghana has the potential to upgrade the knowledge of modern herbal farming. 

Herbal medicine is so deeply ingrained in Ghanaian culture that promoting and expanding its use will be much easier. The demand for herbal medicines is increasing locally and internationally. Trade agreements, such as the AfCTA, provide opportunities to export herbal products to other countries, thereby expanding the market.

Ghana has a rich history of medicinal herbs. Developing this sector will help improve the country’s future. Ghana is also at the intersection of tradition and modernity. Therefore, bringing ancient knowledge and modern science together will help enhance healthcare in the region while making a positive impact worldwide. 

With investments in education, licensing, and innovative organizational approaches, Ghana can lead the global market for herbal medicines. This sector will enhance access to healthcare, boost the economy, and help protect traditional knowledge. Soon, it will help Ghana’s natural resources become much more valuable, encouraging people to work together.