Organized Drugs

• Organized drugs refer to those derived from higher-order structures of plants or organisms.
• They maintain the complex architecture of the source material, such as leaves roots, stems, bark, seeds, fruits, and flowers.
• These drugs are typically obtained by physical processes like drying, grinding, or decoction without altering their fundamental structure.

Characteristics:

• Derived from specific plant parts (e.g., leaves, roots).
• Retain the anatomical structure of the source.
• Often require physical processing (drying, grinding) for use.
• Contain a mixture of various phytochemicals.

Examples of Organized Drugs:

1. Leaves:

   • Moringa oleifera (Drumstick Tree): Leaves are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
   • Aloe vera: Leaves contain gel used for its soothing and healing properties.

2. Roots:

   • Ginseng (Panax ginseng): Roots are valued for their adaptogenic properties, enhancing stamina and reducing stress.
   • Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Roots are used for their anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

3. Bark:

   • Cinchona tree (Cinchona officinalis): Bark is the source of quinine, used to treat malaria.
   • Willow tree (Salix spp.): Bark contains salicin, a precursor to aspirin, used for pain relief.

4. Seeds:

   • Strychnos nux-vomica: Seeds contain strychnine, a potent neurotoxin used in small doses for certain medical applications.
   • Coriander (Coriandrum sativum): Seeds are used as a spice with digestive benefits.

5. Flowers:

   • Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Flowers are used for their calming and anti-inflammatory effects.
   • Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Flowers are utilized for their antiseptic and healing properties.

6. Fruits:

   • Capsicum (Bell Peppers): Fruits contain capsaicin, used in topical creams for pain relief.
   • Citrus fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons): Fruits are rich in vitamin C and used for their antioxidant properties.

Extraction and Processing:

• Organized drugs often require specific extraction methods to obtain the desired medicinal compounds.
• Techniques include:
• Decoction: Boiling plant parts to extract water-soluble constituents.
• Infusion: Steeping plant parts in hot water, similar to making tea.
• Grinding: Pulverizing plant material to increase the surface area for extraction.

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