A comprehensive overview on significance and utilization of medicinal plants

Abstract

A medicinal plant refers to any plant that contains therapeutic substances in one or more of its components, which can be employed for medical purposes or act as precursors in the semi-synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds. When a plant is identified as medicinal, it suggests that it can be effectively used as a drug, therapeutic agent, or as an active ingredient in medicinal products. The popularity of herbal medicines is rising in both developed and developing countries for primary health care, attributed to their broad range of biological and medicinal effects, greater safety margins, and reduced costs.