Therapeutic potential of Indian medicinal plants: a recent progress

Traditional medicine systems have been integral to healthcare across regions such as India, Pakistan, China, Africa, USA and other countries, practiced since as early as 2600 BCE. These medical systems explored in the treatment of diseases like cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular conditions. In India, practices such as Ayurveda and Siddha have provided natural remedies for generations and are now increasingly recognized on the global stage. Several medicinal plants used in these systems such as Terminalia arjuna (Arjuna), Panax ginseng (Ginseng), Curcuma longa (Turmeric), Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi), Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), and Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) are known for thier rich contents of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, and glycosides. These phytochemicals contribute significantly to thier therapeutic effects. Research has shown that these plants demonstrate pharmacological potential against a range of health conditions such as cancer, bacterial infections, inflammatory disorders, liver dysfunction, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. In this book chapter, we discuss biomedical applications of several Indian medicinal plants and highlight thier relevance in management of various diseases. However, despite their extensive use, the molecular mechanisms underlying many of these traditional practices remain largely unexplored. Delving into the phytochemistry and biomedical potential of these medicinal plants from India's diverse flora can help uncover new therapeutic avenues. This approach enables the integration of ancient traditional wisdom with modern scientific approaches, ensuring the continued relevance of these remedies in global healthcare.