Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences Future Natural Products 2783-4662 11 1 2026 10 20 Bridging Regulatory Gaps for Evidence-Based Natural Products: Advancing the Translation of Scientific Evidence Towards Health Policy 50 52 10.34172/fnp.362 EN Zahra Lorigooini https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0844-7571 Journal Article 10.34172/fnp.362 2026 05 23 2026 07 19 Problem: Despite a growing body of preclinical and clinical evidence supporting neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and metabolic effects of selected natural products, the translation of this evidence into evidence-based healthcare systems remains hindered by inconsistent regulatory classifications and fragmented policy frameworks. Results: Recent advances in metabolomics, systems pharmacology, standardized extraction methodologies, controlled cultivation practices, randomized controlled trials, and contemporary quality-assurance protocols have considerably improved the reproducibility, safety profiling, and mechanistic elucidation of natural products. However, substantial gaps remain in regulatory harmonization, integration into clinical practice guidelines, translational research funding, professional education, and the balanced evaluation of adverse effects and drug–natural product interactions. Recommended Action: Health authorities and policymakers are advised to adopt adaptive regulatory frameworks, increase dedicated funding for translational research, incorporate rigorously validated natural products into clinical practice guidelines, and strengthen evidence-based curricula in the training of healthcare professionals and regulatory personnel. Urgency: Scientifically validated natural products will remain underutilized without coordinated policy reform, thereby constraining global access to potentially cost-effective therapeutic options and impeding innovation across healthcare systems. Target Audience: This brief is directed at health policymakers, regulatory agencies, healthcare administrators, clinical guideline developers, public health organizations, translational researchers, and scientific journal editors. Scope Clarification: This document focuses exclusively on substances for which there is robust clinical trial evidence, rather than endorsing unproven natural products.