Selection Identification and Authentication of Herbal Materials ensure quality, purity, and safety of medicinal plants in herbal medicine. Ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of herbal materials involves three key steps: selection, identification, and authentication. 1. Selection of Herbal Materials The selection process ensures the right plant material is used for herbal medicine or products. … Read more
Source of Herbs includes wild collection, cultivation, and commercial farming to obtain medicinal plants for therapeutic products. Wild Sources of Herbs Wild herbs grow naturally in the environment and are harvested for medicinal or culinary use. Common Wild Herb Sources: Forests – Ginseng, goldenseal, elderberry Meadows – Chamomile, yarrow Mountains – Ginkgo, ginseng, echinacea Wetlands … Read more
Herbal Drug Preparation involves extraction, purification, and formulation of plant materials for therapeutic use in medicine. Definition It involves processing raw herbs into medicinal forms like powders, extracts, tinctures, and capsules while maintaining their therapeutic properties. Common Methods of Herbal Drug Preparation Infusions: Steeping leaves or flowers in hot water (e.g., Green tea, Chamomile tea). … Read more
Definition Herbal Medicinal Product A herbal medicinal product is a formulated and processed preparation derived from plants, used for therapeutic purposes. These products contain one or more active ingredients obtained from herbs, herbal extracts, or plant derivatives. Classification of Herbal Medicinal Products Traditional Herbal Medicines: Based on traditional knowledge, often used for minor health issues … Read more
Definition of Herb Definition of Herb refers to a plant or its part valued for medicinal, aromatic, or therapeutic properties in healthcare. What is an Herb? An herb is a plant or plant part valued for its medicinal, aromatic, or culinary properties. Herbs are used in traditional and modern medicine, food, cosmetics, and perfumery. They … Read more
Herbal Medicine uses plant-derived products for prevention and treatment of diseases, integrating traditional knowledge with modern therapy. Definition It also called phytomedicine or botanical medicine, refers to the use of plants or plant-derived substances to prevent, treat, or manage diseases and promote health. It is one of the oldest forms of medicine and is widely … Read more
Excipients are inactive ingredients added to enhance the physical properties, stability, and patient acceptability of semisolid dosage forms. Common types include: Bases: Provide structure and consistency. They can be lipophilic (e.g., petrolatum, lanolin) or hydrophilic (e.g., polyethylene glycols). Gelling Agents: Form the gel structure in semisolids. Examples include carbomers, hydroxyethyl cellulose, and xanthan gum. Emulsifying … Read more
Definition Gels are semi-solid topical preparations consisting of a liquid phase dispersed in a gelling agent, forming a three-dimensional network. They are typically transparent, non-greasy, easily spreadable, and provide a cooling and soothing effect. Gels are widely used in dermatology, cosmetics, and medical applications. Preparation Methods Gels are prepared depending on their type: Hydrogels Water-based … Read more
Definition Creams are semi-solid topical preparations made from an emulsion of oil and water. They are less greasy than ointments and are easily absorbed, providing a balance between hydration and occlusion. Creams are widely used in skin care and medical treatments. Preparation Methods Creams are typically prepared as either oil-in-water (O/W) or water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions: … Read more
Definition Pastes are semi-solid topical preparations containing a high proportion of solid substances dispersed in a base. They are thicker and stiffer than ointments, allowing them to adhere to the skin for extended periods. Pastes are used to protect, soothe, and provide localized effects. Preparation Methods Levigation Solid ingredients are ground into fine powder and … Read more
