Ayurvedic herbalism: A comprehensive study of medicinal plants in Indian traditional medicine
Archana Kumari, Tarh Tadek, Bhartendu Sharma and Ravinesh Mishra
Ayurvedic herbalism represents one of the oldest and most sophisticated systems of traditional medicine in the world. Rooted in the Indian subcontinent, Ayurveda utilizes a vast pharmacopeia of medicinal plants to promote health, prevent disease, and manage complex disorders. The research explores Ayurveda's historical foundation and plant-based healing, categorizing key medicinal plants based on their therapeutic actions. It discusses common herbs like Ashwagandha, Neem, Tulsi, Amla, and Turmeric, as well as their pharmacological properties, traditional uses, and active constituents. The research also details herbal preparation methods like decoctions, powders, fermented tonics, and medicated oils, demonstrating how formulations are tailored for potency and patient compatibility. The project explores the growing importance of Ayurvedic herbalism in modern medicine, particularly in preventive healthcare, stress management, and chronic disease treatment. It integrates traditional knowledge with modern scientific validation through clinical trials and pharmacological studies, while addressing challenges like standardization and biodiversity loss.
This chapter provides a comprehensive review of Ayurvedic herbal practices, focusing on the ethnobotanical knowledge, pharmacological properties, and contemporary relevance of key herbs. It examines the principles guiding herbal use, classification of plants, and integration of traditional wisdom with modern pharmacology. The chapter also highlights current challenges, including standardization, scientific validation, and sustainability of plant resources. Through case studies, figures, and comparative tables, it presents a multidimensional view of Ayurvedic herbalism as a vital component of holistic health and integrative medicine.
Archana Kumari, Tarh Tadek, Bhartendu Sharma, Ravinesh Mishra. Ayurvedic herbalism: A comprehensive study of medicinal plants in Indian traditional medicine. J Med Plants Stud 2025;13(3):279-283.