Crude drugs in pharmacognosy
In pharmacognosy, crude drugs refer to plant or animal materials that are used in their natural or minimally processed form to produce therapeutic effects. These materials can include: Types of Crude Drugs 1. *Plant-based crude drugs*: Leaves (e.g., digitalis), roots (e.g., ginger), bark (e.g., cinchona), seeds (e.g., psyllium), and fruits (e.g., senna). 2. *Animal-based crude drugs*: Products derived from animals, such as beeswax, honey, and lanolin. Characteristics of Crude Drugs 1. *Natural origin*: Crude drugs are derived from natural sources, such as plants or animals. 2. *Minimal processing*: Crude drugs are often used in their natural or minimally processed form. 3. *Complex composition*: Crude drugs can contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, glycosides, and terpenes. Uses of Crude Drugs 1. *Traditional medicine*: Crude drugs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. 2. *Pharmaceutical industry*: Crude drugs can ...