Review Article of Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine, or phytotherapy, refers to the practice of using plants and their extracts for therapeutic or preventive health purposes. It forms one of the oldest healthcare systems known to humankind and remains an essential part of global medical practices today. Approximately 80% of the world’s population still relies on herbal remedies, either directly or indirectly, for healthcare needs. Herbal medicines are valued for their affordability, accessibility, and lower side-effect profile compared to synthetic pharmaceuticals. This review discusses the history, phytochemical basis, pharmacological actions, therapeutic potential, advantages, safety concerns, and future prospects of herbal medicines in the modern healthcare system.