Undoubtedly, the plant kingdom still holds many species of plants containing substances of medicinal value which have yet to be discovered; large numbers of plants are constantly being screened for their possible pharmacological value (particularly for their anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, hypoglycaemic, amoebicidal, antifertility, cytotoxic, antibiotic and anti-Parkinsonism properties). Pharmacognosists with a multidisciplinary background are able to make valuable contributions to these rapidly developing fields of study and pharmacists in general need to have a knowledge of, and to give professional advice on, the many herbal preparations available to the public.