David Picking

Biography and Expertise of David Picking

Dr. David Picking is a Senior Research Fellow at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus, where he contributes to the Caribbean Centre for Research in Bioscience (CCRIB). His expertise combines modern biochemistry with traditional herbal medicine, focusing on pharmacognosy, ethnopharmacology, and ethnobotany. This dual perspective allows him to bridge the gap between indigenous knowledge and contemporary scientific standards.

His work is dedicated to developing a strong evidence base for the safe use of medicinal plants within Jamaica’s healthcare infrastructure. Therefore, his efforts directly support the congress’s Thematic Axis, “Integration of TCIM into Health Systems,” by providing scientifically validated data for clinical application. Furthermore, his research into traditional Caribbean remedies contributes to the “Knowledge Diversity” pillar of the congress motto.

Dr. Picking’s involvement with the TRAMIL network and the Pan-American Compendium of Medicinal Plants underscores his commitment to South-South collaboration, a key historical aspect of this WCTCIM. This work is essential for preserving and standardizing traditional knowledge in the Americas, aligning with the WHO’s strategic goals and the evidence-based principles of the Gujarat Declaration.

Professional Career of David Picking

Dr. David Picking‘s professional journey demonstrates a deep commitment to both academic research and practical application in the field of herbal medicine. His career has focused on documenting, validating, and promoting the use of traditional medicinal plants in the Caribbean. He plays a key role in regional and international initiatives aimed at integrating this knowledge into formal healthcare and sustainable commerce.

His roles extend from primary research to advisory positions on academic and commercial boards, reflecting a holistic approach to the natural health products sector. Moreover, his recent diplomatic engagements with India’s Ministry of Ayush highlight his work in fostering global partnerships for TCIM research and education.

• Current Position: Senior Research Fellow at the Caribbean Centre for Research in Bioscience (CCRIB), The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Jamaica.
• Chair: Recently appointed as Chair of The UWI Mona Interdisciplinary Cannabis Research and Development Group.
• TRAMIL Contributor: A long-standing contributor to the Traditional Medicines of the Islands (TRAMIL) network, having published Jamaica’s first TRAMIL survey in 2011.
• Committee Representative: Represents TRAMIL on the regional technical and organizing committee for the Pan-American Compendium of Medicinal Plants, a project coordinated by the Brazilian Academic Consortium for Integrative Health (CABSIN).
• International Collaboration: In 2024, he visited India to engage with the Ministry of Ayush, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), and the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), initiating formal research partnerships.

Academic Qualifications

The academic background of Dr. David Picking is uniquely interdisciplinary, providing him with a solid foundation in both biochemical sciences and traditional healing modalities. His training at respected institutions in the Caribbean and the United Kingdom has equipped him with the skills to conduct rigorous scientific research on natural products while understanding their traditional uses and applications. This blend of knowledge is central to his work in ethnopharmacology.

This educational path has been instrumental in shaping his research agenda, which aims to create a scientifically sound basis for integrating herbal medicine into modern healthcare systems. Consequently, his qualifications exemplify the kind of multidisciplinary training needed to advance the field of integrative medicine effectively.

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biochemistry: The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Jamaica.
• Bachelor of Science (BSc Hons) in Naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine: University of Westminster, School of Integrated Health, London, UK.
• Graduate Diploma in Naturopathy and Western Herbal Medicine: University of Westminster, School of Integrated Health, London, UK.

Research, Publications, and Contributions by David Picking

The research of Dr. David Picking is concentrated in the fields of pharmacognosy, ethnopharmacology, and ethnobotany. His primary objective is to build a substantial evidence base that supports the safe use of medicinal plants in the Jamaican healthcare system. His work also aims to bolster the country’s natural health products industry by providing scientific validation for traditional remedies.

This focus directly aligns with the Gujarat Declaration’s emphasis on science and evidence as the foundation for integrating TCIM into public health. In addition to his research, he has disseminated his findings widely through numerous publications. His scholarly output includes peer-reviewed articles, books, book chapters, and community-focused works, demonstrating a commitment to reaching both academic and public audiences.

Furthermore, David Picking is an active participant in the global scientific community, having presented his research at national, regional, and international conferences. His recent appointment as Chair of The UWI Mona Interdisciplinary Cannabis Research and Development Group places him at the forefront of exploring the therapeutic potential of another significant medicinal plant.

Board and Committee Activities of David Picking

Dr. David Picking actively contributes his expertise to several organizations that are pivotal to the research, conservation, and commercialization of medicinal plants in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. His participation in these boards and committees reflects a commitment to translating research into tangible outcomes for conservation, public health, and economic development. These roles position him as a key link between academia, conservation efforts, and industry.

Through these activities, he helps guide the strategic direction of organizations dedicated to preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable use of natural resources. This work is crucial for ensuring that traditional knowledge is not only preserved but also applied in ways that benefit society and the environment.

• Board Member: Serves on the board of the GWG Organic Research Station and Forest Conservancy, a 370-acre trust property in Jamaica that is part of the United Plant Savers International Botanical Sanctuary Network.
• Board Member: Sits on the board of Perishables Jamaica, a commercial company specializing in indigenous Jamaican herbal teas for local and international markets.
• Committee Representative: Represents the Traditional Medicines of the Islands (TRAMIL) network on the technical and organizing committee for the development of the Pan-American Compendium of Medicinal Plants.
• Group Chair: Leads The University of the West Indies Mona Interdisciplinary Cannabis Research and Development Group.

Additional Resources

To further explore the work and collaborative projects associated with Dr. David Picking, the following resources provide detailed information on the initiatives he contributes to. These platforms showcase the documentation of traditional Caribbean medicine and international conservation efforts he supports.

TRAMIL Pharmacopoeia: Explore the Caribbean Herbal Pharmacopoeia

United Plant Savers: Learn about the Botanical Sanctuary Network

ORCID Profile: View Publications and Academic Profile