The European Society of Ethnopharmacology was founded on March 23 1990, during the First European Colloquium on Ethnopharmacology which took place at Metz (France), from 22 to 24 March 1990. It comprises national European associations having a common interest in the study of traditional pharmacopoeias and representing more than 1500 specialists (medical doctors, pharmacologists, botanists, anthropologists, historians of medicine and pharmacy, etc.).
The project was initiated at an international meeting held in Metz (France) in July 1989, following a suggestion by the French Society of Ethnopharmacology. Officers of several associations present at this meeting considered it opportune to unite their efforts and to contribute to the development of Ethnopharmacology by creating an European network comprising the organizations interested in the study and improvement of traditional pharmacopoeias.
The principal aim of the Society is to promote cooperation within Europe in the field of ethnopharmacology:
1.by facilitating the exchange of information;
2.by promoting the harmonization of the research activities of European specialists;
3.by organizing or participating in the organization of international scientific meetings;
4.by helping to establish and carry out joint research projects;
5.by promoting cooperation with developing countries.
The Society is also encouraging the creation of national associations or branches in those European countries where specialists interested in ethnopharmacology are not yet organized. The Society is open to corresponding members (individuals and associations) representing the discipline outside Europe.
