Bridging Traditional and Modern Medicine: The Role of Botanicals in Healthcare

Botanicals have been integral to traditional medicine for centuries, with ancient civilizations such as those in China, India, and the Americas utilizing plant-based remedies for a myriad of health issues. These cultures recognized the therapeutic potential of plants, employing them to treat conditions ranging from digestive disorders to skin ailments. In contemporary times, the scientific community is increasingly interested in understanding the potential benefits of these botanicals, as some modern pharmaceuticals are derived from plant extracts with historical usage. However, the challenge lies in ensuring the safety and efficacy of these natural treatments, necessitating standardized usage methods and high-quality product assurance. While there is a growing body of research exploring the pharmacological properties of botanicals, there remains a need to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern scientific validation. This involves not only proving the efficacy and safety of these plants but also respecting and integrating age-old wisdom into current practices.

This research topic aims to explore the multifaceted role of botanicals in traditional medicine, encompassing both historical perspectives and modern scientific advancements. The primary objective is to investigate the pharmacological properties of specific botanicals, their traditional uses across different cultures, and their integration into contemporary healthcare practices. Key questions include how these plants function within the body, the appropriate dosages for therapeutic effects, and the mechanisms underlying their efficacy. By fostering collaboration between traditional healers, scientists, and policymakers, the research seeks to create a comprehensive understanding of botanicals' therapeutic potential, ultimately promoting informed healthcare decisions.

To gather further insights into the integration of botanicals in traditional and modern medicine, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Pharmacological properties and biochemical mechanisms of specific botanicals
- Traditional uses of botanicals across diverse cultures
- Clinical trials and laboratory studies on botanical efficacy and safety
- Ethnobotanical surveys documenting traditional knowledge
- Challenges in quality control and standardization of botanical products
- Sustainability and regulatory considerations in the cultivation and utilization of medicinal plants
- Educational strategies for healthcare professionals and the public on the use of botanical medicine

Keywords: • Botanicals • Traditional medicine • Pharmacological properties • Ethnobotany • Integrative healthcare

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.