OVERVIEW

Herbal medicine, with a rich historical background, is re-emerging as a valuable component of contemporary healthcare. It offers a wealth of benefits, from complementing conventional treatments to promoting preventive health. By addressing challenges and fostering ongoing research, we can harness the full potential of herbal medicine to enhance modern healthcare and well-being.

Herbal medicine is plant-based remedies known for its therapeutic nature. Used for treatment and prevention of diseases, rooted in historical practices and increasingly supported by modern research. It has been used for thousands of years across different cultures to treat various health conditions and promote overall well-being. It can come in many forms, including teas, tinctures, capsules, and topical applications. They are often used to support overall health, treat specific conditions, or complement other treatments. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), herbal medicine is relied upon by 60% of the global population, and approximately 80% of people in developing countries depend almost entirely on it for their primary healthcare needs.

KEY ASPECTS

Ancient Roots

Ancient civilizations, from the Egyptians and Greeks to the Chinese and Indians, documented the use of herbs for healing. Development of herbal systems like traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda emerged, each with a unique approach to using herbs. These systems laid the foundation for the holistic health practices we see today. In recent times, herbal medicine is more organized as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in China, and Ayurveda & Unani medicine, mainly in the Indian subcontinent.

Herbal Healing (Benefits of Herbal Medicine)

Here are common herbal medicines that research has demonstrated to be safe and effective when used correctly. Always inform your healthcare providers about any herbs or supplements you use, as they need to be aware of potential interactions with other medications you are taking.

○ Chamomile (Flower)

Chamomile helps in anxiety, relaxation, heal wounds, reduce inflammation and swelling. It may be used to treat skin rash from radiation treatments and to ease vomiting from chemotherapy. It’s taken as a tea, compress, and capsules. The compress version is considered safer by the FDA.

○ Echinacea (Leaf, stalk, root)

Echinacea is used to treat or prevent colds, flu, infections, for wound healing, to make the body’s immune system stronger. Some studies indicate that echinacea is beneficial for upper respiratory infections. It’s only used for short-term use because studies have shown that long-term use can affect the body’s immune system. It’s fall in the daisy family and many people are allergic to this, that’s why consultation is a must.

○ Feverfew (Leaf)

Feverfew is used to treat fever, migraines, arthritis, headaches and menstrual cramps. Suddenly quitting the intake may become the reason that migraines come back. It should not be used with NSAID medicines, warfarin or other medicines that thin the blood. If the leaves are chewed, then mouth ulcer and stomach upset are its side effects.

○ Ginseng (Root)

Ginseng is used to boost energy, sex drive, immune support, stress reduction and balance the body. Side effects can include high blood pressure and fast heart rate. Don’t take it with warfarin, heparin, NSAID medicines, estrogens, corticosteroids, or digoxin. People with diabetes should not use ginseng.

○ Ginkgo (Leaf)

 Ginkgo is used for asthma, bronchitis, fatigue, tinnitus, for many aging related issues, to improve memory and to help prevent dementia. Ginkgo may increase the risk of bleeding. Do not use it with NSAID medicines, other medicines that thin the blood, anticonvulsant medicines, or tricyclic antidepressants. Ginkgo seeds have ginkgo toxin, which can cause seizures. In large amounts, it can lead to death.

Note: Seek professional advice before starting herbal remedies, especially if you have existing health conditions or take other medications, to ensure safety and avoid adverse interactions.

Modern Applications

In modern medicine, approximately a quarter of prescribed drugs are derived from medicinal plants and undergo rigorous testing. In other medical systems, medicinal plants often make up the majority of treatments, which may be informal and not scientifically tested. Medicinal herbs play a vital role in modern healthcare by complementing conventional treatments to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects. It is effective in managing chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes. Emphasizing a holistic approach, herbal medicine treats the whole person, leading to improved overall health.

Traditional knowledge of herbs aids in discovering new treatments, and herbal remedies are often more accessible and affordable. Herbs are used for preventive health benefits, such as boosting immunity and detoxifying the body. Ongoing research uncovers new therapeutic potentials, leading to drug development. Efforts to regulate and standardize herbal products ensure their safety and efficacy, making them a reliable option in modern healthcare.

 Diverse Forms

 There are several forms of herbal medicine, enabling a wide range of uses and methods of administration in modern healthcare. These include herbal teas, supplements, tinctures, essential oils, salves, creams, lotions, capsules, and tablets. Each form provides unique advantages, allowing for tailored therapeutic approaches to meet individual needs. This diversity in administration methods makes herbal medicine a versatile and integral part of contemporary healthcare practices. The most prevalent uses of herbal medicine are teas, capsules (supplements), tinctures, and oils. 

○ Teas and infusions: Brewed by steeping herbs in hot water. They are consumed as a beverage and are often used for their calming effects or to aid digestion.

○ Capsules and Tablets: Taken orally, these provide a measured dose of herbal extracts or powdered herbs. They are convenient for regular use and consistent dosing.

○ Tinctures: Prepared by soaking herbs in alcohol or vinegar. They are taken in small amounts, often diluted in water, and are used for their concentrated herbal benefits.

○ Oils and Ointments: Applied directly to the skin. Oils are typically used for massage or skin health, while ointments are used for localized pain relief or to treat skin conditions.

Challenges and Concerns

 The global increase in herbal medicine emphasizes the importance of addressing safety concerns, which often stem from poor quality of raw materials or finished products. Issues with herbal medicine quality can be divided into external problems (such as contamination, adulteration, and misidentification) and internal problems (including ingredient complexity and inconsistency). Effective solutions include adhering to Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to reduce external risks, and employing modern analytical methods to tackle internal issues, resulting in standardized herbal products.

Future Perspective

 Herbal medicines integrate traditional practices and historical therapeutic knowledge, offering guidelines for the treatment, control, and management of various diseases. Plant-based drugs have proven effective for conditions such as skin diseases, tuberculosis, diabetes, and cancer. Ancient civilizations like those in India, China, South America, and Egypt still use these remedies. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 60% of the global population and 80% in developing countries rely on herbal medicine for primary health care. The herbal industry, valued at around US$100 billion, is growing at an annual rate of approximately 15%. While herbal medicine is increasingly popular due to its perceived safety, affordability, and accessibility, concerns about its pharmacognosy and standardization persist. Ongoing research aims to scientifically evaluate and validate these drugs. This review examines the current status of herbal medicines in modern therapy and outlines the need for future research.

CONCLUSION

Herbal medicine bridges ancient practices with modern healthcare, offering valuable benefits for treatment and prevention. Its diverse forms and applications, combined with a growing industry, highlight its potential. However, addressing challenges like quality and standardization is crucial. By integrating traditional knowledge with scientific research, herbal remedies can enhance contemporary health practices and offer holistic care solutions.

References:

1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/229433451_Herbal_Medicine_in_Healthcare-An_Overview

2. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=1&contentid=1169

3. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herbal_medicine

4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0965229911001312#:~:text=External%20challenges,cause%20serious%20harms%20to%20patients.

5. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B978012814619400001X

By Sabrin Saba Hussain