Mini Review Open Access

Ethnopharmacology of Medicinal Plants: Bridging Traditional Knowledge and Modern Drug Discovery

Abstract

Ethnopharmacology is an interdisciplinary field that explores the medicinal use of plants and natural substances based on traditional knowledge systems. It integrates aspects of botany, chemistry, pharmacology, and anthropology to understand how indigenous communities utilize natural resources for healthcare. This mini review highlights the importance of ethnopharmacology in drug discovery, focusing on the documentation of traditional practices, phytochemical screening, and pharmacological validation of medicinal plants. The role of ethnopharmacology in identifying bioactive compounds and developing novel therapeutic agents is emphasized. Additionally, the review discusses modern techniques such as molecular docking and metabolomics that enhance ethnopharmacological research. Challenges such as loss of traditional knowledge, lack of standardization, and ethical concerns are also addressed. Overall, ethnopharmacology remains a vital field that connects ancient wisdom with modern scientific innovation.

Meera Srinivasan

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