Medicinal Plants and Our Surroundings

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines medicinal plants as those that contain properties or compounds useful for therapeutic purposes or those that synthesize metabolites to produce useful drugs (WHO 2008). A large proportion of these medical compounds have been discovered through ethnobotanical knowledge of their traditional use. Recently, WHO estimated that 80% of people worldwide rely on herbal medicines for some aspect of their primary health care needs. According to WHO, around 21,000 plant species have the potential to be used as medicinal plants. More than 30% of all plant species have been used for medicinal purposes at one time or another.

Medicinal plants play a crucial role in human health and well-being. They have been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine across various cultures and continue to be a significant part of modern healthcare. India's traditional system of medicine and use of medicinal plants are known to be a rich repository of such plants. The forests in India are the principal repository of a large number of medicinal and aromatic plants, which are collected as raw materials for manufacturing drugs and perfumery products. About 8,000 herbal remedies have been listed in the AYUSH system in India. Evidence exists that Unani Hakims, Indian vaids, and European and Mediterranean cultures have been using herbs as medicine for over 4,000 years. The history of medicinal plants is as old as human civilization, and humans have continuously benefited from these plants since then.

The pharmacological evaluation of substances from plants is an established method for identifying leading compounds that can lead to the development of novel and safe medicinal agents. Because of this revival of interest, research on plants of medicinal importance is growing phenomenally at the international level for the longevity of life. Our ancestors cured diseases with the help of these plants, making their lives disease-free. With time, science and technology progressed, and these plants were promoted and propagated both in the country and abroad. These important plants have been mentioned in our scriptures, Sushruta Samhita and Charak Samhita.

Many elements (bioactive principles) contained in these medicinal plants (alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenolics, glycosides, sterols, tannins) act as pain relievers, provide relief from fever, cold, cough, respiratory diseases, asthmatic problems, infections, mental illness, stomach-related disorders, fractures, snakebites, and many more. Some elements are even capable of providing relief from dreaded diseases like cancer. These qualities of plants are being used in the medicine manufacturing industry, and the demand for these medicines is increasing day by day all over the world. Unlike allopathic medicines, these medicines do not have any side effects.

It is believed that if the human body is functioning properly, it has a perfect balance of all the elements found in nature. It has been accepted worldwide that Ayurveda is a very effective form of medicine. In this way, we can say that it is as effective or even more effective than any chemical compound. Often, the relief we get by drinking herbal tea at home is not available even after taking many medicines. Even now, 90% of the world's population considers it more appropriate to take these medicines. Some plants are even used in first aid. The bioactive principles are also known as natural products (NP). NPs also serve as templates for the synthesis of new drug discoveries. However, the use of these NPs is dose-dependent, so they cannot be used without a prescription.

Population rise, inadequate supply of drugs, prohibitive costs of treatments, side effects of several synthetic drugs, and the development of resistance to currently used drugs for different diseases have led to increased emphasis on the use of medicinal plants.

Here are some key reasons why medicinal plants are important in our lives:

1. Natural Remedies for Common Ailments

Many medicinal plants have compounds that can treat common illnesses, such as colds, headaches, digestive issues, and skin conditions. For instance, ginger helps with nausea and digestive problems, while chamomile is often used for its calming effects.

1. Pharmaceutical Discovery

Numerous modern medicines have been derived from medicinal plants. For example, morphine, a powerful pain reliever, was originally extracted from the opium poppy, and aspirin comes from the willow tree. Medicinal plants serve as a vital source for drug development, helping to discover new treatments and cures for diseases.

1. Rich in Bioactive Compounds

Medicinal plants are rich in bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and glycosides, which have been shown to have therapeutic effects. These compounds can help in the treatment of various diseases, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system.

1. Sustainable and Affordable Healthcare

In many developing countries, where access to modern medicine may be limited, medicinal plants provide an affordable and accessible option for treating health problems. They can be grown locally, making them a sustainable resource for healthcare.

1. Cultural and Traditional Significance

Medicinal plants have deep cultural and traditional significance in many societies. They are often intertwined with rituals, spiritual practices, and healing traditions. This cultural knowledge has been passed down through generations, contributing to their continued use and importance.

1. Holistic Approach to Health

Medicinal plants often promote a holistic approach to health, addressing not just physical symptoms but also emotional and mental well-being. For example, lavender is used not only for its soothing effects on the body but also to ease stress and anxiety.

1. Environmental Benefits

Many medicinal plants grow naturally in the wild or can be cultivated sustainably. By using medicinal plants, we can reduce our dependence on synthetic drugs, which require complex manufacturing processes and may have negative environmental impacts.

1. Support for Immune System and Prevention

Many plants are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that support the immune system. For example, echinacea is believed to boost the immune system and help prevent colds, while garlic is known for its antibacterial properties. Other plants, such as onion, giloy, and ashwagandha, also offer similar benefits.

1. Enhance Wellness and Longevity

Some medicinal plants are believed to have anti-aging and longevity benefits. Ginseng, turmeric, and giloy, for instance, are widely used for their potential to improve vitality, reduce the effects of aging, and maintain a healthy, active life.

1. Support for Mental Health

Plants such as Brahmi, St. John's wort, and ashwagandha are traditionally used to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. As mental health awareness increases, the role of these plants in managing stress and supporting emotional well-being becomes more recognized.

In summary, medicinal plants are a vital part of human life, offering natural, sustainable, and effective ways to promote health, treat illnesses, and support wellness. They contribute to both traditional and modern healthcare, providing a deeper connection to nature and supporting overall well-being.

Author: Dr. Pratibha Chaturvedi Sr. Advisor, Medicinal Plant Domain, Shri Hanuman Balaji             Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Hospital (SHBBCCSS), Ghaziabad, UP                                                           Former Consultant, Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Ministry of AYUSH (Medicinal Plant Domain)