Abstract

AYURVEDIC DRUG ACTIONS: WHOLE DRUG VS. DRUG EXTRACTS

*Dr. Mohammed Asif MD (Ayu) and Dr. Siva Sahithi MD (Ayu)

Abstract

Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine, employs natural substances derived from plants, minerals, and animals to promote health and treat diseases. In a successful course of treatment selecting the right dosage and form is essential. The efficacy of Ayurvedic remedies depends on the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of these substances. According to the Rasa Panchaka principles, Ayurveda attributes a drug's effects to any one of the Rasa-Vipaka Guna-Virya- Prabhava, where each element has a distinct function or a combined function. Meanwhile Extracts and isolated chemicals are now widely used due to scientific advancements. Therefore, Extract a chemically separated derivative could not be useful and could have negative consequences. A significant distinction arises in modern-day applications between the use of the whole drug and isolated drug extracts. This article explores the actions of Ayurvedic drugs, comparing whole drugs to their extracts, and evaluates their advantages and limitations.

Keywords: Whole drug, drug extract, drug action.