Evaluation of ability and technical knowledge of medicinal plant sellers in Isfahan province

Nowadays, because of inapt side effects of the synthetic drugs, the applications of medicinal plants have become widespread and increased demand for these substances has resulted in expansion of sales outlets. As a result of dealing with the public health, it is essential for all these dispensaries to maintain the standards of health, safety, hygiene and adequate knowledge in every aspect. Since necessary data in regards to these selling outlets in any reliable sense did not exist, therefore, the experimental study for future planning was designed. The study was accomplished in 31 cities in Isfahan province on up to 170 shops. Towards this end, a questionnaire was designed for the face to face enquiry. Results showed that about 30 percent of the sellers had no or very little knowledge. About 50 percent of them had high school diploma and 22 percent had higher education certificates. About 10 percent of them had, only, certificates in agriculture fields. Further evaluation indicated that the technical knowledge of the respondents was minimal. Totally, results showed that not only public but also technical knowledge of medicinal plant sellers was little. Thus, it is necessary for responsible managers to attempt in improving of knowledge among these peoples.