Beyond reverse pharmacology: Mechanism-based screening of Ayurvedic drugs.
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Date
2010-10
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Abstract
This paper reviews the pharmacology of Indian medicinal plants, starting with the historical background of European work
on the subject beginning as early as the 17th century, and tracing its history through the work of Sen and Bose in the
1930’s, and Vakhil’s historic 1949 paper on Sarpaghanda. The often crucial role of patient feedback in early discoveries
is highlighted, as is the time lag between proof of pharmacological action and identification of the active principle, and
subsequent elucidation of mechanism of action. In the case of Indian plants in the 20th century this process sometimes
took almost 50 years. Reserpine and its mechanisms are given in detail, and its current relevance to public health
discussed. The foundation of present day methods of pharmacology is briefly presented so the complexity of methods
used to identify properties of Ayurveda derived drugs like forskolin and baicalein, and their bioavailability, may be better
appreciated. Ayurveda derived anti-oxidants and their levels of action, immuno-modulators, particularly with respect to
the NF-kB pathway and its implications for cancer control, are all considered. The example of curcumin derived from
turmeric is explained in more detail, because of its role in cancer prevention. Finally, the paper emphasizes the importance
of Ayurveda’s concepts of rasayana as a form of dietary chemo-prevention; the significance of ahar, diet, in Ayurveda’s
aspiration to prevent disease and restore health thus becomes clear. Understood in this light, Ayurveda may transcend
pharmacology as a treatment paradigm.
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Keywords
Ayurveda, Reverse Pharmacology
Citation
Lele R D. Beyond reverse pharmacology: Mechanism-based screening of Ayurvedic drugs. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. 2010 Oct-Dec; 1(4): 257-65.