The European Medicines Agency’s Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC) is set to convene virtually from July 7th to 9th, 2025, to deliberate on critical updates and revisions concerning EU herbal monographs. Chaired by Emiel Van Galen with Karin Erika Svedlund as Vice-Chair, the meeting aims to enhance the regulatory framework governing herbal medicines across the European Union.
Agenda Highlights and Monograph Revisions
The meeting agenda encompasses a comprehensive review of current HMPC activities, including the distribution of Rapporteurships and the appointment of new peer-reviewers. A significant portion of the discussion will focus on the adoption of revised EU herbal monographs, with particular attention to plant species such as Plantaginis lanceolatae folium and Cannabis flos. Additionally, the committee will address the re-evaluation of public statements and the finalization of guidelines on genotoxicity assessments and good agricultural practices for herbal substances.
Strategic Collaborations and Future Plans
Strategic collaborations with other scientific committees and international regulators, including the World Health Organization, are on the agenda to ensure harmonized safety and efficacy standards for herbal medicinal products. The HMPC is also planning to engage in stakeholder consultations and participate in the Pharma package legislation reform discussions with the European Commission. Preparations for the HMPC’s 2026 meetings, emphasizing a blend of in-person and remote participation, are underway to foster continued regulatory advancements.
- Adoption of multiple revised monographs, including those on Fragariae folium and Liquiritiae radix.
- Postponement of discussions on certain monographs such as Cimicifugae rhizoma due to ongoing assessments.
- Enhanced focus on the interaction potential of herbal products through collaborations with the Translational Science Office.
- Strategic review and follow-up plans to address real-world data in supporting EU herbal monographs.
The HMPC’s proactive approach in updating and refining herbal medicinal product regulations underscores the EU’s commitment to ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of herbal medicines available to its citizens. By addressing both current and emerging challenges through collaborative efforts and comprehensive reviews, the committee aims to maintain high standards and adapt to the evolving landscape of herbal medicine usage.
European consumers and healthcare professionals can expect more rigorously evaluated and clearly defined herbal products entering the market, fostering trust and reliability in herbal medicinal products. The upcoming HMPC meeting signifies a pivotal step towards more transparent and scientifically substantiated guidelines, ultimately enhancing public health outcomes and supporting the sustainable use of herbal resources within the EU.
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