Revista de farmacognosia y productos naturales

Natural Products and Traditional Medicine Bridging the Past and Future of Healing

Abstract

Nouran Adriano

In an age marked by technological advancement and scientific innovation, the allure of natural products and traditional medicine persists as a testament to the enduring wisdom of our ancestors. From ancient herbal remedies to indigenous healing practices, traditional medicine has served as a cornerstone of human health and wellness for millennia. Today, amidst growing concerns over the side effects of synthetic drugs and the unsustainable practices of modern healthcare, there is a resurgence of interest in natural products and traditional healing modalities. The roots of traditional medicine can be traced back to the dawn of human civilization, where ancient cultures developed sophisticated systems of healing based on the medicinal properties of plants, minerals and animal-derived substances. In ancient Egypt, for example, medicinal herbs such as aloe vera and garlic were revered for their healing properties, while in traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture and herbal remedies formed the cornerstone of healthcare practices. Similarly, indigenous cultures around the world, from the Amazon rainforest to the Australian outback, have long relied on the knowledge of local plants and traditional healing rituals to maintain health and vitality.