Abstract
In contemporary times, herbal medicine is used as an adjunct to conventional therapy and for health promotion. Herbs that have long been considered curative or prophylactic should be further studied in clinical trials. Can these time-tested natural therapies be used and trusted in exceptional circumstances, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic?
Traditional medicines have led to a revolution in and evolution of modern medicine. Herbs, such as Echinacea purpurea, Curcuma longa, Allium sativum, Althaea officinalis, Andrographis paniculate, Commiphora molmol, Cymbopogon citratus, Eucalyptus globulus, have shown immunomodulatory effects. Many plant-based formulations with potential immunomodulatory activity have been isolated and utilized—even without supportive evidence-based findings. Thus, more initiative toward human trials should be undertaken to understand better how herbs promote human health and prevent or cure specific illnesses and diseases.
Moreover, and most importantly, the interests of indigenous communities—which are the primary source of rich traditional knowledge and the natural reserve of herbal plants—should be safeguarded.
Keywords: Mangosteen; Natural Remedy; Phytotherapeutic; Thai; Traditional; Vedas
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