In the dynamic world of medicinal plant sciences, Professor Namrita Lall of the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Pretoria (UP) is a beacon of innovation and dedication, as demonstrated by her recent Exceptional Academic Achievers Award.

For Prof Lall, the award is more than a personal accolade – it serves as recognition of her dedication to advancing plant research and contributing to scientific knowledge.

“It also serves as motivation for me to continue my work in understanding and leveraging the potential of indigenous plants,” she says.

Prof Lall holds the National Research Foundation (NRF)-Department of Science and Technology Chair in Plant Health Products from Indigenous Knowledge Systems. Her credentials are complemented by her NRF rating, a testament to her significant contributions to scientific research, and further distinguished by her placement in the top 1% of the Essential Science Indicators list for publication citations in pharmacology and toxicology.

Her remarkable journey from India to South Africa reflects a commitment to understanding the transformative potential of indigenous plant knowledge.

“Innovation in plant sciences is not just about research; it's about creating value for society and understanding the profound connections between nature and human health,” Prof Lall says.

Her academic trajectory is rooted in personal experience. Originally from India, she completed her undergraduate studies in her home country before pursuing doctoral research in South Africa. Her PhD, which she obtained in 2001, marked the beginning of a transformative career dedicated to unlocking the potential of medicinal plants.

Her passion for plant sciences was kindled during her childhood in India, where traditional plant-based medicine was a common practice. While initially aspiring to become a medical doctor, her fascination with plants ultimately steered her towards botanical research and discovery.

As leader of the Medicinal Plant Sciences Programme, Prof Lall has made significant strides in exploring South Africa's rich and largely unexplored botanical biodiversity. Her research is driven by a vision to unpack the pharmaceutical potential of local plants, potentially revolutionising medicine and economic opportunities in South Africa.

“South Africa has a rich biodiversity that is still unexplored,” Prof Lall says.

Several pharmaceutical products for skin-hyperpigmentation, liver protection and periodontal problems have been commercialised both locally and internationally. Another 30 prototypes are close to commercialisation; these include adjuvants for tuberculosis, skin cancer, acne and periodontal diseases. Start-up companies such as Blyde Botanics have resulted from Prof Lall’s research programme.

Notably, her academic impact extends beyond her research. She has supervised an impressive 60 master’s and PhD students, nurturing the next generation of plant scientists and researchers. Her mentorship reflects a commitment to knowledge transfer and scientific development.

Prof Lall expresses admiration for women who successfully balance a professional career with entrepreneurship and family life. Her own career exemplifies this balance, demonstrating that scientific excellence and personal fulfilment can coexist.

Her guiding principle throughout her remarkable academic journey? “Do not run away from disappointments and failures. Be resilient, courageous and strive towards your goal.”