A Review of Current Research on Traditional Medicines for the Treatment of Gastrointestinal and Biliary Disorders

Abstract

Gastrointestinal (GI) and biliary disorders are the most commonly known health issues for people in the present time as a consequence of modern lifestyle, eating habits, stress, and many other conditions. The usage of traditional substances has been phased out over time, resulting in an increase in the occurrence of numerous diseases and a decrease in immunity. Therefore, in the current scenario, traditional medicine is increasingly being used to treat and manage diseases worldwide. Traditional medical systems of India, China, and Africa are the most frequently used today. Indian medicinal system includes the Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems of medicine. Ayurveda is the most antique system of medicine, which relies on the usage of plant-based formulations. Herbal medicines are used nowadays by up to half of the world's population. Phytomedicines isolated from plants contain a wide variety of bioactive components that can have both negative and positive effects. Many herbal plants, such as Acacia, Aloe, Carum, Rose, Funnel, etc., are proven to be effective as phytomedicines that are effective for the cure of gastrointestinal and biliary problems. The available pharmacological therapeutic drugs often have efficacy but are associated with many adverse effects. To minimize the adverse effects, the use of phytomedicines can be the best possible alternative. In this study, a review of some of the most frequently used traditional herbal medicine isolates with their proven pharmacological activity and novel drug delivery systems for the proper delivery of isolates is presented. Moreover, currently available herbal-marketed formulations are also highlighted.