Professor I.K. Amponsah, Head of the Department of Herbal Medicine at KNUST
Correspondence from Ashanti Region
The Head of the Department of Herbal Medicine at KNUST, Professor I.K. Amponsah, has cautioned against the blanket condemnation of herbal medicines, emphasising the importance of evidence-based assessments.
Speaking at the commissioning of the department’s newly renovated facility, he defended the value of local remedies and highlighted their untapped potential.
Professor Amponsah argued that sweeping statements about herbal medicines causing damage to organs such as the kidneys and liver are both misleading and harmful.
He emphasised that many standardised herbal products have undergone rigorous testing and have not been linked to organ damage.
He further underscored the need to invest in the development and standardisation of local medicines, citing the significant role herbal remedies played during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He also noted ongoing efforts to train local manufacturers to meet international standards.
The event also recognised the significant philanthropic support of Dr Adu-Gyamfi Atuahene Boateng, popularly known as ‘Dr. Time Da So,’ whose generosity made the renovation project possible.
Recalling his swift decision to support the initiative, Dr. Adu-Gyamfi said, “It took less than five minutes for me to decide to support the school when they approached me. I did this willingly, and I am always ready to do more. We spent about GH¢100,000 on the project. I am happy to see the funds used exactly as promised, and I commend the leadership for their transparency and dedication.”
The newly renovated facility marks a new chapter for the School of Herbal Medicine at KNUST, promising enhanced training and research opportunities for both students and faculty.
By defending local remedies and acknowledging philanthropic efforts, Professor Amponsah and Dr. Adu-Gyamfi underscored the vast potential of Ghana’s herbal medicine sector.
