Since prehistoric times, humans have used plants as medicines, and even beneficial or toxic effects of many plants and animal sources were recognized. In ancient times, India and China contributed many types of remedies, out of which a few are recognized till today as useful drugs. In therapeutics, India has contributed 2 texts namely “Rigveda” (2500-3000 BC, ancient preparation compendium) and “Charaka Samhita” written by physician Charaka and Sushruta. “Pan Tsao”, material medica of China contains many preparations from animal plant or animal origin. Over millions of years, plants have developed the capacity to synthesize a diverse array of chemicals known as phytochemicals. With advent of modern scientific medicine, phytochemicals have been refined, or altered to produce a share of modern pharmacopoeia. Despite increasing availability of many potent and selective drugs, there remains an increasing interest in folk remedies, including herbal medicines. Herbal medicine is the most commonly employed form of Alternative medicine. Alternative Medicine refers to those practices other than conventional medicine (Allopathy) practised. The biologically based alternative therapies include the use of botanicals (e.g. herbs) and supplements (e.g. amino acids, vitamins, minerals). Herbs include raw or dried plant or plant parts (leaves, roots, stems, flowers). Supplements will be useful in preventing or treating particular diseases in sufficient amounts to correct physiological or biochemical abnormalities. For example Omega-3-fatty acids are used for heart health and also to treat inflammation and depression. Centuries of use have created the impression that herbal remedies are both safe and effective. Safety concerns about herbal medicines require well designed toxicological and pharmacokinetic studies. This may lead to more restrictive approval and marketing requirements and stringent monitoring of adverse effects. Since there is expanding trend in health care, the concept of complimentary medicine is introduced for benefit of patients demand and improvement in health care.
