Herbal medicine

Peptic ulcer disease remains a pressing health issue worldwide, most often linked to Helicobacter pylori infection and long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). While conventional therapies such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs), cytoprotective agents, and antibiotics have transformed patient care by reducing acid secretion and eradicating infection, they are not without drawbacks. Rising antibiotic resistance, drug-related side effects, and recurrence of ulcers continue to challenge clinicians and patients alike. In recent years, herbal medicine has gained attention as a complementary or alternative approach. Plant-derived compounds rich in flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and terpenoids offer anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antisecretory effects, while also strengthening the stomach’s natural defenses. Traditional remedies such as Anogeissus latifolia, Alchornea castaneaefolia, Decalepis salicifolia, Solanum nigrum, Ocimum tenuiflorum, Asparagus racemosus, and Curcuma longa have shown promising results in experimental models, not only reducing ulcer formation but also accelerating healing. This review brings together evidence on both synthetic and herbal strategies, comparing their mechanisms, effectiveness, safety, and cost considerations. While PPIs and antibiotic regimens remain indispensable for H. pylori eradication and NSAID-induced ulcer prevention, herbal therapeutics stand out for their lower side-effect profile and potential to provide long-term mucosal protection. Looking ahead, integrated treatment approaches that combine modern pharmacology with traditional phytomedicine may offer the most balanced and sustainable path for managing peptic ulcer disease.

Herbal medicine has occupied special place in the world of pharmaceuticals. Lavendula stoechus Linn, known as Ustukhuddoos is such a plant origin drug documented in Unani literature, which possesses many pharmacological actions, few are scientifically evaluated and many are yet to be evaluated.  The present review attempts to encompass the up to date comprehensive literature analysis on Lavendula stoechus Linn with respect to its phytochemistry, pharmacognostic characters and its various pharmacological activities.

Viral diseases, including emerging and chronic viruses, are an increasing worldwide health concern. As a consequence, the discovery of new antiviral agents from plants has assumed more urgency than in the past. A number of native Indian medicines of plant origin are known to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity, although only a few have been studied for their antiviral properties and immunomodulating effects. The number of patients seeking alternate and herbal therapy is growing exponentially. Herbal medicines are the synthesis of therapeutic experiences of generations of practicing physicians of indigenous systems of medicine for over hundreds of years. Herbal medicines are now in great demand in the developing world for primary health care not because they are inexpensive but also for better cultural acceptability, better compatibility with the human body and minimal side effects. This review gives an overview of some important medicinal plants with antiviral activities which are traditionally used in India. Keywords- antiviral, Herbal medicine, immunomodulating effects