Volume 14, Issue 54, 2025 (April – June)
Review Article
Traditional Indian Ayurvedic Medicinal Plants and Herbal Medicines
Angesh Chandra, Archana Chandra
Keywords: Medicinal plants, Rasayana, Ayurvedic herbal medicines, Drug-herb.
DOI:10.37273/chesci.cs262056051
Abstract
Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine developed in ancient India, is based on the holistic integration of body, mind, and spirit through natural healing methods. Central to this practice are medicinal plants and herbal formulations, which have been used for thousands of years to prevent and treat a wide range of diseases. This paper explores the significance, pharmacological properties, and contemporary relevance of Ayurvedic medicinal plants such as Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Curcuma longa (Turmeric), Phyllanthus emblica (Amla), and Azadirachta indica (Neem). It also examines the growing body of scientific research supporting their therapeutic efficacy, as well as the challenges posed by issues such as lack of standardization, drug-herb interactions, and safety concerns.
The paper emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern pharmacological validation to ensure the responsible use of herbal medicines in both clinical and community settings. Regulatory frameworks, quality assurance protocols, and public education are identified as key strategies for maximizing the benefits of these natural therapies while minimizing risks. Overall, the study underscores the enduring value of Ayurvedic herbal medicine as a sustainable, accessible, and culturally relevant component of global health care.
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