The rising use of medicinal plant food supplements in Europe reflects a growing consumer shift toward natural health solutions and sustainability-driven lifestyles. The study aims to synthesize current literature and regulatory frameworks to better understand the drivers behind medicinal plant food supplements use and the challenges within the botanical products market. Findings reveal that usage patterns are strongly influenced by age, gender, income, education level, and cultural traditions, with women, older adults, and health-conscious individuals leading consumption. Consumers increasingly demand products that are organic, traceable, and ethically sourced, aligning with broader sustainability goals. However, discrepancies in national regulations, transparency in labeling, and environmental concerns such as over-harvesting persist across the European Union (EU). The distinction between Food Supplements (FSs) and Traditional Herbal Medicinal Products (THMPs) under current EU directives contributes to market fragmentation and consumer confusion. In conclusion, harmonizing regulatory standards, promoting responsible sourcing, and integrating traditional knowledge into sustainable production models are essential for ensuring safety, consumer trust, and long-term ecological viability in the medicinal plant food supplement sector.
Mihai et al. (Thu,) studied this question.
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