The MRHA regulations affecting Herbal Medicine

The law concerning the sale of herbal medicines is changing. From 30th April 2011 only herbal medicines that have product licenses will be allowed to be sold across the counter. All unlicensed medicines will only be allowed to be sold by prescription, after a consultation with a qualified herbal practitioner.

The Traditional Herbal Medicinal Products Directive (THMPD) is a piece of EU legislation that is being adopted all over Europe and the UK is leading the way. It is driven by the need for public safety and as such I am in favour of it. Retailers will be allowed to sell through any unlicensed remedies that they have in stock, so it will be a few months before you notice the change.

HOW WILL THIS AFFECT THE AVAILABILITY OF HERBAL PRODUCTS?

Over 5,000 products may be removed from the shelves and availability will be restricted to a number of ‘popular’ licensed products, mainly manufactured by larger European companies. These will mainly be single herbal tinctures or tablets such as Echinacea or St John’s wort. Traditionally herbalists use blends of herbs to create a remedy. Very few of these will be available across the counter.

how will this affect napiers?

Over the past two years we have been working to convert some of Napiers traditional formulas into licensed products. We currently have eight licensed products available. Some of our products are skincare or supplements which are not affected by the legislation. However, some of our traditional blends will only be available on prescription.

how will this affect you?

You will find that some of the products you are used to buying are no longer on the shelves. However, as Medical Herbalists, Napiers practitioners are still able to prescribe and dispense herbs and tinctures for our patients and for customers who become patients. In order that we can continue to supply you with these we need you to register as a patient of Napiers. As a patient we will be able to dispense for you the products that you need. 

is there a cost involved?

No. There is no cost involved in registering as a patient of Napiers Clinic. Simply ask for a registration card, available in all three of our shops, and fill this in. One of our Herbal Team will then speak to you and issue your Napiers patient card. Using this card you will be able to make repeat purchases of any herbs and tinctures that you use in your treatment. If you need a full herbal consultation you will be referred into our clinic which will be charged at our normal consultation fees.