From Tradition to Trend: Scrutinizing the Logic behind Plant-based Drug Discovery
Darshan Gowda Bharathi Srinivasa1, Sunil Kumar Kadiri1, Prashant Tiwari1
1Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dayananda Sagar University, Bengaluru South, Karnataka, 562112, India.
Current Drug Research Reviews
|May 15, 2026
Summary
Plant pharmacology research is rapidly advancing drug discovery, offering therapeutic breakthroughs. This review assesses the scientific, economic, and ethical impacts of plant-based medicine development.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Drug Discovery
- Ethnobotany
Background:
- Revival of plant pharmacological research driven by interest in drug discovery and therapeutic breakthroughs.
- Historical use of plant-derived chemicals in medicine accelerated by technological advancements.
- Growing field of plant-based medicine necessitates critical examination of its consequences.
Purpose of the Study:
- Critically examine the rapid rise of plant-based medicine.
- Assess scientific, economic, and ethical implications.
- Establish the justification for this developing field.
Main Methods:
- Review of current research trends in plant pharmacology.
- Analysis of challenges including standardization and bioavailability.
- Comparative efficacy assessment of synthetic versus plant-based medications.
Main Results:
- Technological improvements are accelerating research and development of plant-derived drugs.
- Biotechnology, AI, and sustainable practices are crucial for drug development.
- Interdisciplinary approaches can enhance the legitimacy and relevance of plant pharmacology.
Conclusions:
- Plant pharmacology's trajectory requires assessment for scientific justification and economic viability.
- Ongoing challenges exist, but interdisciplinary efforts can improve the field.
- Future potential of plant-derived drugs is significant, warranting continued investigation.
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