Topic 1-PCOG - WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF PHARMACOGNOSY TO THE PHARMACY? - What is the importance of

What is the importance of pharmacognosy to both pharmacy and pharmacy

students today?

The significance of pharmacognosy in the development of novel medicines to

treat disease in humans makes it important in the field of pharmacy. Natural

pharmaceuticals are frequently difficult to manufacture in large quantities, hence

research is necessary to synthesize new biologic drugs. Synthetic synthesis of these

substances allows for changes including increased bioavailability, changed

pharmacokinetics, and enhanced efficacy. These changes can turn a simple, ineffective

natural plant into a potent medication, as has been discovered with some anticancer

medications. As a result, natural substances can serve as excellent models for the

invention of drugs. Pharmacognosy was historically valued as an integral component of

drug discovery procedures and pharmacy education, but its use has been on the

decline as a result of the development of new wonder medications that can be created

in a lab. Because of this, research into medicinal herbs is necessary to combat diseases

including malaria, Alzheimer's, and chronic pain that are currently incurable and/or

life-threatening (Orhan, 2014).

In light of its definition and course, pharmacognosy comprises one of the

foundational topics covered in the pharmacy curriculum. Plants and plant extracts are

used by people as self-medication. Knowing the past is important because many

treatments are derived from natural ingredients. The role of a pharmacist is to

comprehend the ailment and treat it with the greatest possible alternative, therefore they

should be familiar with popular remedies and how they combine with other medications,

both natural and manufactured. Knowing how to use herbs medicinally is important

because, in general, plants are the greatest source of innovative medications. In order

to fulfill our duties as authorities on drugs and drug-related issues, pharmacy students

should therefore be equipped with the necessary knowledge. They should also be

familiar with plant-based medicines, their function, active molecules, potential drug

interactions, and potential toxic reactions. Thus, it is essential to explain

pharmacognosy to pharmacy students.

Topic 1-PCOG - WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF PHARMACOGNOSY TO THE PHARMACY?