Indigenous Medicinal Plants and Formulation

Different indigenous cultures developed their unique traditional medical systems for a wide variety of human ailments using the medicinal and aromatic plants as a source of medicine. These plants which are considered as medicinal resources are recommended for their therapeutic properties. Since the beginnings of known history of medicinal plants, the production and utilization of medicinal and aromatic plants has seen a tremendous, nearly indescribable progress. In an effort to provide quality healthcare to all, traditional medicine, in particular herbal medicine, has survived as a major healthcare provider, mainly in rural and remote areas. Indian traditional system of medicine has a vast history that has been acknowledged also by modern research for their effectiveness. Indian traditional medicine or medicinal plants are also considered as vital sources for new drug development. Evidence based incorporation of Indian traditional medicine through clinical practice helps provide quality healthcare to all. In this context, the present chapter provides an insight into various basic aspects of medicinal and aromatic plant verticum spanning the product range – from the sustainable sourcing, conservation, cultivation and trade of raw-materials. Components or actors of the Indian Traditional Medicinal System largely depend on MAPs. The brief survey of the principal actors of Indian MAP sector provides an opportunity to assess the comprehensive and profound activities with which the present Ministry of AYUSH is engaged in promoting sustainable production and utilization of MAPs with the ultimate goal of integrating it into clinical practice to provide safe, efficient and quality healthcare to the people. In conclusion, we hope that this edited book will be valued by students, researcher, scholar and faculties in the respective field and by those who are engaged in the research on indigenous medicinal plants and their formulation.