Herbal medicine has long been essential to Ghana’s healthcare system, providing natural remedies rooted in centuries-old traditions. As the global interest in plant-based treatments and holistic healing grows, Ghana has witnessed a rise in formal institutions dedicated to herbal medicine education. These schools preserve indigenous knowledge and blend it with modern scientific practices to produce skilled herbal practitioners who can meet today’s health challenges.
Across the country, several universities and specialised colleges now offer structured programs in herbal medicine, ranging from certificate courses to degree programs. These institutions focus on pharmacognosy, natural product research, traditional healing methods, and clinical herbal practices. They are helping to standardise herbal training, ensuring that graduates are scientifically informed and deeply connected to traditional wisdom.
This article highlights the top 10 herbal schools in Ghana that are leading the way in this important field. Whether you’re a prospective student, a health professional looking to expand your expertise, or someone passionate about herbal healing, these schools offer the best training, research opportunities, and hands-on experience. Each institution plays a vital role in shaping the future of herbal medicine in Ghana and beyond.
Here are the Top 10 Herbal Schools in Ghana:
- Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine and Technology
- KNUST Centre for Traditional and Herbal Medicine
- University of Ghana Department of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine
- UDS Department of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine
- UHAS Institute of Traditional & Alternative Medicine
- Ghana College of Pharmacists
- Wisconsin University College, Ghana
- University of Cape Coast
- Accra College of Medicine
- College of Integrative Medical Science
1. Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine and Technology
The Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine and Technology (NUCHMT) was founded to provide Competency-based training (CBT) in Naturopathy and Holistic Medicine. The College draws from the healing wisdom of many cultures.
Nyarkotey College of Holistic Medicine programs were first created in 2016 to create a university that would be one of the foremost educational institutions for naturopathic and holistic medicine in Africa. It is an educational member of the World Naturopathic Federation (WNF) in Ghana.
Through the collaborative efforts the Board of Directors, international network of professors, clinicians/practitioners, Staff, and a personal, caring, and professional administration, the institution has developed the first ever National Occupational Standard in Naturopathy & Holistic Health Science leading to the development of the first-ever Bachelor of Health Science Technology in Naturopathy and Holistic Medicine under the Commission for Technical and Vocational and Other Training (CTVET).
The College is fully committed to the freedom of choice in healthcare through holistic health education, integrated medicine, scientific research, and clinical applications. Its intent is to create competent and credible practitioners to be of service through education and healthcare by empowering individuals to take charge of their health and well-being of body, mind, and spirit.
With the vision to be a world-class vocational university of Naturopathy and Holistic Medicine recognised for excellence, innovation, and healthcare catalyst in Competency-Based Education, it is working hard to become the preferred leader in Competency-Based Training in Naturopathy in Ghana and Africa. The mission of the institution is to educate future leaders in Naturopathic Medicine and sciences, work with the regulators in Ghana and Africa to help streamline the practice of Naturopathic medicine.
NUCHMT offers an HND and BTech in Naturopathy and Holistic Medicine programmes under CTVET, which are under the National TVET Qualifications Framework (NTVETQF). Its HND in Naturopathy is on level 5, and BTech in Naturopathy is on level 6.
Its programmes include; a three to six-month Certificate course in any of the following: Herbal Medicine, Clinical Nutrition, Massage, and Herbal Manufacturing; a two-year diploma in any of the following: Naturopathy, herbal medicine, and homoeopathy; a three-year HND in Naturopathy & Holistic Medicine with options in Homeopathy, Clinical Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, Herbal Manufacturing, Integrative Medicine, Physical Therapy/Massage, or Mind Body Medicine; and Bachelor of Technology, Naturopathy & Holistic Medicine with options in Homeopathy, Clinical Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, Herbal Manufacturing, Integrative Medicine, Physical Therapy/Massage, or Mind Body Medicine.
CONTACT: P.O. BOX CS 8036. TEMA COMMUNITY 7. ASHAIMAN / collegeofholisticmedicine@gmail.com / 0241083423; 0248044018
2. KNUST Department of Herbal Medicine
The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) College of Health Sciences has a Department of Herbal Medicine under the faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. The department offers a Bachelor of Herbal Medicine (BHM) in Herbal Medicine as an undergraduate programme.
The mandate of the College of Health Sciences is essentially to provide higher education in health sciences, undertake research, disseminate knowledge and foster collaboration with major stakeholders. It hopes to be a preferred destination for teaching, research, professional and entrepreneurial training in health sciences for the sustainable development of Ghana and the rest of Africa. It is on a mission to provide a conducive environment for professional entrepreneurial training in health sciences, collaborative research, community and industrial support, enhanced linkages, and encouragement of business innovations, for effective health care delivery in Ghana and for achieving globally relevant goals.
To gain admission to read BHM in Herbal Medicine at KNUST, applicants must have credit passes in FIVE (5) subjects, including English Language, Mathematics, and Additional/Elective Mathematics, and Credit passes in Biology, Chemistry and Physics or Mathematics, with a total aggregate of 14 or better.
CONTACT: admissions@knust.edu.gh / webmaster@knust.edu.gh / +233 312 22917 / +233 312 22918 / +233 312 22436
3. University of Ghana Department of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine
The University of Ghana offers training in Herbal Medicine under the College of Health Sciences and the Department of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine. The Department of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine is committed to excellence in research, education, and the advancement of pharmacognosy and herbal medicine.
The department is equipped with the latest technologies to enhance research. One of such equipment is CAMAG TLC Visualizer, which it acquired in 2023. This cutting-edge equipment is set to revolutionise its research efforts and further commitment to advancing the field of pharmacognosy. This advanced technology enables researchers to analyse and visualise compounds with unparalleled precision. Its capabilities open doors to more profound insights into bioactive compounds sourced from medicinal plants, aligning perfectly with the Department’s research goals.
The School of Pharmacy has equipped laboratories for Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine for students’ practical courses. It also has a laboratory for Faculty Research. The school has arrangements with the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, 37 Military Hospital and the Police Hospital, among others, for Clinical rotation for students.
CONTACT: P.O. Box LG 25, Legon, Accra | +233 30 2213820 | +233 30 2213820
4. UDS Department of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine
The University for Development Studies (UDS) is Ghana’s first public University in the North.
The University for Development Studies offers Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine under the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences: Department of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine.
CONTACT: +233-37-209-3697 | +233-54-544-7445 | academicaffairs@uds.edu.gh
5. UHAS Institute of Traditional & Alternative Medicine
The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) was created by a law (Act 828) in December 2011. It was set up as a leading school focused on research, practical health education, and serving communities. According to the law, the University was required to create an Institute of Traditional and Alternative Medicine (ITAM). Following this, the Institute was started and began working in September 2019.
The main goals of ITAM are to organise training and research programs in traditional and alternative medicine (TCAM), to educate the public about TCAM, and to build trust in the safety and use of these practices. ITAM also promotes combining traditional methods with modern (allopathic) medicine. It works on producing and preserving natural medicines to support scientific research.
ITAM is an important and special part of UHAS. It was set up to solve problems and close gaps in the practice of TCAM in Ghana. ITAM will work closely with government bodies, partners, and other groups to make sure it does its work well and meets all the required standards for TCAM practices.
Its vision is to be an internationally recognised centre of excellence in the development and promotion of TCAM practices. The institute is also on a mission to optimise healthcare by facilitating the holistic integration of TCAM into the national healthcare system through education, training, research, product development, advocacy, community engagement and service delivery.
The Institute of Traditional and Alternative Medicine (ITAM) at UHAS is made up of six departments: the Department of Traditional Medicine, the Department of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the Department of Natural Products Sourcing, the Department of Education and Advocacy, the Clinical Department, and the Drug Production Department.
CONTACT +233 (0) 245 125359 / info@uhas.edu.gh
6. Ghana College of Pharmacists
The Ghana College of Pharmacists Faculty of Drug and Herbal Medicine Discovery, Development, and Production (GCP FDHDDP) fellowship program offers high-quality, multidisciplinary training in modern areas of Pharmaceutical Sciences. The program covers every stage needed, from the discovery of a new bioactive compound to its release as a drug, including the strategies used for finding bioactive compounds. Its goal is to train young pharmacists in modern pharmaceutical fields to create skilled human resources that can help Ghana participate in global scientific advancements and adopt new technologies across different scientific areas.
Another key aim of the program is to link research with business development, strengthening technology transfer to Ghanaian pharmaceutical companies and meeting specific professional needs. It prepares postgraduate students both theoretically and practically to successfully fill important roles in pharmaceutical industries, regulatory bodies, and research laboratories. In today’s competitive job market, driven by the increasing number of pharmacy graduates, the program offers a unique path by encouraging students to explore nontraditional careers such as those in the pharmaceutical industry.
The GCP FDHDDP Pharmaceutical Industry Fellowships are built through partnerships between the university and various companies and institutions in Ghana. Fellows spend most of their time working directly with these companies, engaging in team projects and gaining real-world experience. Each fellow is assigned a preceptor for close, regular supervision, along with mentors who guide their overall professional growth. This structure ensures that fellows not only gain work experience but also build strong support networks within the industry.
While pharmacy graduates can try to enter the pharmaceutical industry immediately after school, it can be challenging without prior experience. These fellowships offer one- or two-year postdoctoral training that shapes pharmacy graduates into strong industry professionals. Fellows acquire both specialised and transferable skills, becoming highly competitive for full-time roles after the program ends. Through working closely with seasoned professionals and participating in networking events, fellows benefit from a comprehensive learning experience that prepares them for long-term success in the pharmaceutical industry.
CONTACT: 0303967737 / 0302246705
7. Wisconsin University College, Ghana
The Wisconsin Centre for Professional Studies was created in November 2020, following a major restructuring and expansion of the former Department for Extramural Studies. The main goal of the Centre is to offer non-academic certificate programs and provide tuition for various professional examinations. It was set up to meet the growing need for short-term, skill-based courses that enhance professional development in different fields.
One of the key programs offered at the Centre is the Certificate in General Naturopathy 101. This program is designed for individuals interested in gaining foundational knowledge and skills in naturopathy and herbal medicine. It provides a solid introduction to the practice of natural healing and equips students with practical skills they can use both at home and professionally.
The Certificate in General Naturopathy 101 runs for six weeks and is conducted in person. The course content includes topics such as plant identification, herbal first aid at home, an introduction to naturopathy, an introduction to herbalism, front desk herbal practices, and guidance on how to operate a naturopathy clinic. These carefully selected subjects aim to give students both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in the field of natural medicine.
The fee for the Certificate in General Naturopathy 101 is 3,000 Ghanaian cedis, covering the cost of tuition. This program offers a valuable opportunity for anyone seeking to build a career in natural health or simply wishing to broaden their understanding of alternative medicine practices. The Wisconsin Centre for Professional Studies continues to open new pathways for professional growth through flexible, practical training programs like this.
8. University of Cape Coast
The School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (SoPPS) at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) is newly established and one of six schools under the College of Health and Allied Sciences (CoHAS). It was created to meet the growing need for advanced pharmaceutical education and research in Ghana. SoPPS is committed to producing highly skilled pharmacists who can contribute to healthcare through both modern and traditional approaches.
At the heart of this school is the Department of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine, which focuses on the science and healing potential of natural products. Pharmacognosy involves studying and evaluating medicines made from plants and other natural sources. The department’s team is dedicated to exploring and using the medicinal value of Ghana’s rich natural heritage. Their goal is to find new treatments rooted in traditional knowledge, making use of both the local plant ecology and the unique marine resources available to the university.
Because UCC is located along the seafront, the department also taps into marine life as a source of potential medicinal compounds. Their research focuses mainly on diseases related to pain and inflammation, infections, and neurological disorders. To achieve this, they use advanced techniques like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, Ultraviolet and Infra-red Spectroscopy, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy to study and profile the chemical compounds found in natural products. This work feeds into the broader drug discovery efforts of the school.
As an essential part of the PharmD program, the Department of Pharmacognosy and Herbal Medicine ensures that students are well trained in the discovery and evaluation of medicines from natural products. Their education prepares them to meet the increasing demand for safe, effective natural therapies in modern healthcare. Through a strong blend of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge science, the department is helping to shape a new generation of healthcare professionals ready to lead in the field of natural medicine.
9. Accra College of Medicine
The Accra College of Medicine commenced as a business in December 2013 and was formally launched as a medical school on the 15th of December 2015. It is a private school located at East Legon in Accra.
The Accra College of Medicine (ACM) offers a detailed and well-structured six-year medical curriculum that is divided into Preclinical and Clinical Sciences. In the first year, students are introduced to Top-Up University Courses, covering essential topics in Humanities and Physical Sciences. From Level 200 onwards, they delve into Integrated Organ-Based Basic Science Courses, including fundamental subjects like Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry. This foundation prepares students to understand the human body’s structure and functions, setting the stage for more advanced medical studies.
At Level 300, the program transitions into Integrated Organ-Based Para-Clinical Courses, where students study disciplines such as Chemical Pathology, General Pathology, Haematology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Psychology, and Sociology. A significant feature here is the course in Professionalism,
Ethics and Heart Power I, emphasising the moral and ethical training of future doctors. Community Care activities are integrated at this stage, encouraging students to engage with real-world health challenges and develop their clinical skills early.
Entering the Clinical Sciences phase from Level 400, students are exposed to Integrated Clinical Science I & II and introduced to clinical care. This stage includes Core Clerkship rotations, where practical, hospital-based training becomes central. At Level 500 and 600, students continue with Integrated Clinical Science III & IV, Speciality Clerkships, Sub-Internships, and courses like “The Medical Entrepreneur,” preparing them for leadership roles in healthcare. Throughout these stages, continued focus on professionalism and ethics is maintained, with major exams like the Final Part I and II Exams marking progression milestones.
An important aspect of ACM’s curriculum is the inclusion of herbal medicine within its Pharmacology training. Recognising the value of traditional medicine in Ghana’s healthcare system, the college integrates education on the pharmacological properties of herbal medicines. Students learn about natural therapies and the scientific basis behind traditional treatments, bridging conventional and alternative medical practices. This forward-thinking approach aligns ACM with a growing global interest in complementary medicine and supports Ghana’s broader national policy of integrating traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare. The program’s design ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable in modern medicine but also equipped to appreciate and apply herbal medicine responsibly and scientifically.
The tuition fees at Accra College of Medicine for the Academic Year are $10,500.
CONTACT: +233 501 580 578 | admissions@acm.edu.gh
10. College of Integrative Medical Science
The College of Integrative Medical Science (CIMS) in Kumasi stands out as a groundbreaking institution, founded by Dr. Addae Mununkum, a Ghanaian cardiothoracic surgeon. Recognising Ghana’s severe shortage of medical doctors — only about 1,500 to serve 22 million people — Dr. Addae turned his attention to the country’s heavy reliance on traditional herbal practitioners, who number around 250,000. Most of these practitioners operate without formal scientific training or regulation, leaving a significant gap in the quality and safety of healthcare. Determined to bridge this divide, Dr. Addae envisioned a school that would blend the best of Western allopathic medicine with Africa’s rich tradition of herbal healing.
His vision became a reality with the establishment of CIMS, the first college of its kind in Ghana. With support from Doctors Lisa and Richard Coico through Village Volunteers, Dr. Addae secured a strategic partnership linking Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) with America’s Temple University. This collaboration led to accreditation from Ghana’s National Accreditation Board for degree programs in integrative medicine. It also opened doors for academic exchanges, scientific research partnerships, and resource support such as laboratory equipment and teaching materials, strengthening the foundation of CIMS.
At CIMS, a diverse group of healthcare professionals — including medical doctors, herbal practitioners, pharmacists, nutritionists, psychologists, and midwives — come together under one educational umbrella. Students participate in classroom-based instruction, research initiatives, and clinical training. This collaborative learning model ensures that graduates are skilled in conventional and natural medicine approaches, giving them the tools to offer well-rounded patient care. The institution aims to improve healthcare outcomes in Ghana by combining rigorous scientific methods with time-tested herbal practices. CIMS offers higher education programs in medical and allied health sciences to train healthcare professionals.
Beyond its educational mission, CIMS is committed to delivering accessible healthcare services across Ghana. It represents a major step towards building a sustainable, integrative healthcare system that honours Ghana’s cultural heritage while embracing modern medical advances. By equipping a new generation of practitioners with dual expertise in allopathic and herbal medicine, CIMS hopes to address Ghana’s healthcare challenges and inspire similar models throughout the African continent.
CONTACT: 024 133 2344 | 026 200 1201
