Abstract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY AS A PIPELINE FOR NOVEL THERAPEUTICS: BRIDGING TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND MODERN DRUG DISCOVERY

Ezenwaeze Malachy Nwaeze*, Ghasi Samuel Ikenna, Oguanobi Nelson Ifeanyi

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Abstract

Background: Ethnopharmacology, the scientific study of traditional medicines and their bioactive principles, has historically provided the foundation for several transformative therapeutics, including quinine, artemisinin, paclitaxel, metformin, morphine, and aspirin. Unlike random high-throughput screening, traditional knowledge embodies centuries of empirical testing for safety and efficacy, effectively serving as a preselected reservoir of biologically active remedies. Objective: This review aims to examine the historical contributions, current methodologies, ethical frameworks, and future opportunities of ethnopharmacology as a pipeline for modern drug discovery. Method: A narrative synthesis of primary literature, historical records, and recent advances in systems biology, metabolomics, genomics, proteomics, and cheminformatics was conducted. Special emphasis was placed on integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific strategies and on examining global governance frameworks such as the Nagoya Protocol. Results: Ethnopharmacology remains a robust source of novel drug leads. Advances in omics technologies and computational methods now enable multidimensional exploration of traditional remedies, improving lead prioritization, mechanistic insights, and pharmacokinetic predictions. Simultaneously, challenges persist in ensuring sustainable sourcing, intellectual property protection, and equitable access and benefit sharing with indigenous communities. Conclusion: Ethnopharmacology bridges traditional knowledge with modern science, transforming empirically validated remedies into innovative therapeutics. When combined with emerging technologies and governed by ethical and ecological safeguards, it remains a vital, equitable, and interdisciplinary pathway for drug discovery in the 21st century.

Keywords: Ethnopharmacology; traditional medicine; natural products; reverse pharmacology, omics, drug discovery.