The Business of Medicinal Plants: Cultivation, Processing, and Commercialization

Program Summary

Start Dates

Duration

Fees

Learning Activities

Course Overview

Building a Profitable, Science-Based, and Sustainable Medicinal Plant Enterprise

The global herbal medicine and medicinal plant industry is projected to reach $550 billion by 2030, driven by the rising demand for natural remedies, functional foods, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals. However, scaling a successful medicinal plant business requires more than just cultivation—it demands strategic business planning, scientific processing techniques, regulatory compliance, and strong market positioning.

The Business of Medicinal Plants Program is a high-level, intensive training program designed for farmers, agribusiness entrepreneurs, pharmaceutical companies, herbal product developers, and investors who want to build, scale, and dominate the medicinal plant and botanical extract market.

This hands-on, in-person program provides cutting-edge expertise in commercial cultivation, post-harvest processing, bioactive compound extraction, clinical validation, regulatory frameworks, branding, and global trade to ensure participants can develop high-quality, compliant, and commercially successful medicinal plant products.

By the end of the program, graduates will earn a Medicinal Plant Business & Commercialization Certification, positioning them as leaders in the herbal medicine and botanical industry.

What You Will Achieve

1

Master Commercial Medicinal Plant Cultivation

Learn how to optimize farm productivity, select high-demand species, and ensure sustainable growing methods.

2

Develop High-Quality Herbal Extracts & Functional Products

Gain expertise in advanced bioactive compound extraction, standardization, and formulation.

3

Navigate Complex Regulatory & Certification Processes

Understand FDA, EMA, WHO, GMP, and organic certification requirements to ensure market entry and compliance.

Program Curriculum

Module 1

Strategic Business Planning & Commercial Model for Medicinal Plant Enterprises

Identify high-value medicinal plant species and their market potential.
Develop a scalable business model for medicinal plant farming and product commercialization.
Conduct market research & competitive analysis to determine pricing, demand, and export potential.
Explore different revenue models (bulk sales, direct-to-consumer, B2B partnerships, contract farming).

Module 2

Medicinal Plant Cultivation & Good Agricultural Practices (GACP)

Learn organic, biodynamic, and precision farming techniques to optimize medicinal plant yield.
Master soil management, water conservation, and sustainable farming practices.
Explore best practices for disease management, pest control, and climate adaptation.
Develop a farm-to-market supply chain strategy to maintain herb potency and bioavailability.

Module 3

Extraction, Processing & Standardization of Medicinal Plant Products

Master bioactive compound extraction techniques (supercritical CO₂ extraction, cold pressing, steam distillation, ethanol extraction).
Learn microencapsulation, freeze-drying, and nano-formulation to enhance bioavailability.
Implement phytochemical screening, chromatography, and bioassays to ensure standardization.
Develop a quality assurance and traceability system for herbal ingredient validation.

Module 4

Compliance, Certification & Regulatory Approval for Global Markets

Navigate FDA, EMA, WHO, EU Organic, USDA Organic, NAFDAC, and GMP certifications.
Learn about intellectual property rights, patents, and proprietary formula protection.
Understand labeling, ingredient disclosure, and scientific claim regulations for herbal products.
Develop a regulatory compliance plan for local and international herbal markets.

Module 5

Product Development, Branding & Market Positioning in the Medicinal Plant Industry

Design herbal supplement lines, essential oils, nutraceuticals, and cosmeceuticals for targeted consumer segments.
Master branding, product packaging innovations, and differentiation strategies.
Utilize digital marketing, influencer marketing, and e-commerce platforms to reach global buyers.
Develop a market entry strategy for online, retail, and wholesale distribution.

Module 6

Investment, Scaling & International Trade in Medicinal Plants

Explore export requirements, global trade agreements, and distribution networks for herbal businesses.
Learn how to secure funding from investors, impact funds, and venture capital firms.
Understand financial modeling, cash flow management, and risk mitigation for large-scale operations.
Develop a pitch deck and investment proposal for scaling a medicinal plant business.

Why Study at the Nigerian College of Agribusiness?

No other institution in Africa offers such a comprehensive approach to agribusiness and development sector education as the Nigerian College of Agribusiness. We provide a unique blend of academic rigor, practical expertise, and industry connections. Here, you will learn from experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields and deeply engaged with the latest advancements in their industries.

We leverage interdisciplinary knowledge and the latest research to enhance our programs, ensuring they are relevant and impactful. At NCA, you will continuously engage with thought leaders who are constantly shaping the dynamics of their industries and after graduation, you will be a life-long member of a vibrant alumni community that continually foster cross-disciplinary learning and networking.

Admission Process

STEP 1: Complete the Application for Admission Form for the course

STEP 2: A non-refundable application fee of N20,000 applies and will be deducted from the tuition upon enrollment. This is payable into
Zenith Bank
Account Name: Nigerian College of Agribusiness
Account Number: 1228461510

STEP 3: Attach receipt of Application fee with your highest academic credential and submit to: [email protected]

STEP 4: Upon successful evaluation of your application, you will receive your Admission Letter indicating acceptance into the program. The Letter will also contain details of enrollment into the Course.
Click on the link below to fill the application form for this course

Tuition Fees

Local: N450,000

International Students: $400

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