Between 22–24 April 2026, at Baiyoke Sky Hotel, researchers from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, in collaboration with Prince of Songkla University, Mahasarakham University, Ubon Ratchathani University, Naresuan University, Chaophraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital Foundation, and the Program Management Unit for Competitiveness, successfully organized the 5th International Conference on Herbal and Traditional Medicine 2026 (HTM 2026) under the theme “Sustainable Development in Herbal and Traditional Medicine: From Ancient Wisdom to Global Health Solutions.”
The conference attracted a large number of scholars, experts, and representatives from various sectors, both domestic and international, reflecting the strength of global academic collaboration in herbal and traditional medicine.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Prof. Dr. Sompong Klanarong, who delivered a keynote address on the future direction of Thai herbal development in the modern global context. He emphasized the integration of traditional medical wisdom with science, technology, and innovation to elevate Thai herbal medicine into high-quality, standardized health products capable of competing sustainably in the global market.
In her welcoming remarks, Prof. Dr. Piwpan Maleewong, Vice President for Research and Innovation at Khon Kaen University, highlighted the university’s role as a leading hub for research and development in herbal medicine and natural products, with a strong focus on knowledge creation, innovation, and global knowledge transfer.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Narin Chanthasri, Dean of the Faculty, noted that HTM 2026 represents a significant collaborative platform bringing together academic and research networks from around the world. He emphasized its role in facilitating knowledge exchange and translating research into health innovations that address current and future global challenges.
The conference featured a rich and intensive academic program covering key themes such as Pharmacology & Preclinical Safety and Clinical Evidence & Translational Traditional Medicine. Distinguished international speakers included Prof. Hitoshi Sato from Japan, who presented on the integration of cannabinoids into evidence-based herbal medicine for global health applications.
Asst. Prof. Jutarop Phetcharaburin introduced the application of phenomics and precision medicine technologies to accelerate drug discovery from natural products. Meanwhile, Dr. Pakakrong Kwankhao shared Thailand’s clinical experiences in herbal medicine, highlighting the potential of Thai traditional medicine to evolve into evidence-based practice.
In addition, Prof. Jenis Janar from Kazakhstan presented research on phytochemistry and pharmaceutical applications of medicinal plants in Central Asia.
The afternoon sessions featured distinguished contributions from Prof. Yoshihiro Hayakawa and Prof. Jean-Luc Wolfender from Switzerland, who shared insights on integrating traditional medicine with modern technologies to advance pharmaceutical research toward innovation.
In addition to keynote lectures, the conference provided a platform for researchers from around the world to present their work through oral presentations, fostering academic networking, knowledge exchange, and the translation of research into real-world applications.
A highlight of the event was the cultural program आयोजित in the spirit of the Songkran Festival, featuring traditional long-drum performances, Thai cultural showcases, and the water-pouring ceremony to pay respect to senior scholars. These activities left a lasting impression on international participants and demonstrated the harmonious integration of Thai cultural identity with global academic engagement.
Following the conference, on 25 April 2026, participants joined cultural study visits across Bangkok, including Wat Phra Kaew, Khlong Bang Luang, and Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen. These visits provided deeper insights into Thai cultural heritage, local ways of life, and the role of Buddhism in Thai society.
The successful organization of HTM 2026 marks another significant milestone for the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Khon Kaen University in demonstrating its leadership in international academic collaboration in herbal and natural product research. The conference served as a vital platform for advancing knowledge toward sustainable health innovation, while enhancing Thailand’s global image through excellence in academia, organization, and cultural presentation.
