The document discusses nutraceuticals, which are products combining nutrients and pharmaceuticals aimed at improving health and preventing chronic diseases. The Indian nutraceutical market is rapidly growing, driven by increasing awareness of nutrition and health, and is projected to expand significantly, tapping into a latent market size that is much larger than the current one. It also emphasizes the potential health benefits of nutraceuticals in relation to diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, while covering various types, regulations, and distribution channels for these products.

1. Dr. Amit Gangwal
Associate Professor
Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal’s Institute of Pharmacy, Dhule
Third Year B. Pharm. (Semester- VI)
Herbal drug technology / (BP603 T.)

2. • The entire content is taken/modified/merged after taking from various online
offline sources like websites, research review papers, videos, books etc.
• The aim of this educational PPT is not to make money.

10. The term “nutraceutical” combines two words – “nutrient” (a nourishing food component)
and “pharmaceutical” (a medical drug). The name was coined in 1989 by Stephen
DeFelice, founder and chairman of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, an
American organization located in Cranford, New Jersey.

12. Nutraceuticals

13. Nutraceuticals

14. The philosophy behind nutraceuticals is to focus on prevention, according to the saying by a
Greek physician Hippocrates (known as the father of medicine) who said “let food be your
medicine”.

15. • A nutraceutical product may be defined as a substance, which has
physiological benefit or provides protection against chronic diseases.
• Nutraceuticals may be used to improve health, delay the aging process,
prevent chronic diseases, increase life expectancy, or support the structure or
function of the body.
A dietary supplement is considered as a product that bears or contains one or more of the following dietary
ingredients:
A mineral, a vitamin, an amino acid, a medical herb or other botanical, a dietary substance for use by man to supplement
the diet by increasing the total daily intake, or a concentrate, metabolite, constituent, extract, or combinations of these
ingredients.

16. • Functional foods look like food and are modified for
greater nutritional value.
• Dietary supplements look like drugs and are made from
food, isolated nutrients or food-like substances to
augment health

17. • A dietary supplement represents a product that contains nutrients derived from food products, and is often
concentrated in liquid, capsule, powder or pill or other suitable form.
• Although dietary supplements are regulated by the FDA as foods, their regulation differs from drugs and
other foods.

42. Nutraceutical Scenario in India
• The Indian nutraceutical industry has great prospects. Over the last decade a wide range of
products have been available, giving an insight into the tremendous growth. On one hand a
booming economy has resulted in overall increase in disposable income of population.
• Added to this unhealthy, eating habits coupled with sedentary lifestyle have led to increase
incidence of diet and its related health issues.
• On the other hand, there is a growing awareness on the importance of nutrition and diet for long
term good health. These have contributed to a favorable market conditions for Nutraceutical
industry in India.
• India has a lot of advantages like qualified human resources, world class R & D facilities and varied
raw material-aspects that give our country a leading edge.

43. • The Indian Nutritional market is estimated to be USD 1 Billion. While the global market is growing at a CAGR
of 7%, the Indian market has been growing much faster at a CAGR of 18% for the last three years, driven by
Functional food and beverages categories.
• However the latent market in India is two to four times the current market size and is between USD 2 to USD 4
billion with almost 148 million potential customers.
• In USD 1 billion market size functional food having 54% market share followed by 32% market share of Dietary
supplement and 14% share of Functional beverages.
• The Indian nutraceutical market is dominated primarily by pharmaceuticals and FMCG companies with
very few pure play nutraceutical companies.
• Some major companies Marketing Nutraceuticals in India are GlaxoSmithKline consumer healthcare, Dabur
India, Cadila Health care, Himalaya herbal Healthcare, Amway, Sami labs etc.

44. • Nutraceuticals are becoming increasingly popular among consumers due to their perceived health
benefits and the growing interest in natural and plant-based remedies.
• The global nutraceutical market is expected to reach USD 578.23 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of
8.8% during the forecast period.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has increased demand for nutraceuticals as consumers look for ways to boost
their immune system and improve overall health.
• The Asia Pacific region is the largest and fastest-growing market for nutraceuticals, driven by rising
disposable income, growing health awareness, and a large aging population.
• Functional foods, such as fortified juices and snacks, are the largest product segment within the
nutraceutical industry.
Worldwide nutraceutical scenario

45. • Vitamins and minerals are the most common ingredients used in nutraceutical products.
• E-commerce has emerged as a popular distribution channel for nutraceutical products, with
many consumers opting for online purchases due to convenience and wider product selection.
• Regulatory requirements vary by country and region, with some jurisdictions having strict
guidelines for the marketing and sale of nutraceuticals.
• The growing trend towards personalized nutrition is driving innovation in the nutraceutical
industry, with companies developing products tailored to specific health needs and genetic
profiles.
• Mergers and acquisitions are common in the nutraceutical industry, as companies seek to
expand their product offerings, distribution channels, and global reach.

47. Potential health benefits
• Over the years nutraceuticals have attracted considerable interest due to their
potential nutritional, safety and therapeutic effects.
• They could have a role in a plethora of biological processes, including
antioxidant defenses, cell proliferation, gene expression, and safeguarding of
mitochondrial integrity.

48. • They are considered to be healthy sources for prevention of life threatening
diseases such as diabetes, renal and gastrointestinal disorders, as well as
different infections.
• A wide range of nutraceuticals have been shown to impose crucial roles in
immune status and susceptibility to certain disease states.
• They also exhibit diseases modifying indications related to oxidative stress
including allergy, Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular diseases,
cancer, eye conditions, Parkinson's diseases and obesity.

49. Fortification.

50. Parameters Functional Foods Dietary Supplements
Definition
Foods that have a potentially positive
effect on health beyond basic
nutrition.
Products intended to supplement the diet that contain
one or more dietary ingredients such as vitamins,
minerals, herbs, amino acids, or other substances.
Purpose
To provide additional health benefits
beyond basic nutrition.
To supplement the diet with specific nutrients that
may be lacking or to provide a higher dose than can be
obtained from food alone.
Regulation
Regulated by the FDA as food
products.
Regulated by the FDA as dietary supplements.
Labelling
May make health claims if supported
by scientific evidence.
May make health claims if supported by scientific
evidence, but must also include a disclaimer stating
that the product is not intended to diagnose, treat,
cure, or prevent any disease.
Examples
Probiotics, fortified foods (e.g.
calcium-fortified orange juice),
functional beverages (e.g. sports
drinks with added electrolytes).
Multivitamins, omega-3 supplements, herbal
supplements (e.g. echinacea).
Potential
Risks
Minimal, as functional foods are
consumed as part of a normal diet.
Possible side effects or interactions with other
medications, and may contain unsafe or harmful
ingredients.

53. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract

58. Classification of Dietary Supplements
Vitamins: Vitamin is an organic compound required by an organism as a vital nutrient in limited amounts. For
example, ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is a vitamin for humans, but not for most other animals. Supplementation is
important for the treatment of certain health problems but there is little evidence of benefit when used by those
who are otherwise healthy.

59. Amino acids and proteins: Amino acids are biologically important organic compounds
composed of amine (-NH2) and carboxylic acid (-COOH) functional groups, along with a
side-chain specific to each amino acid.
Essential fatty acids: Essential fatty acids, or EFAs, are fatty acids that humans and other
animals must ingest because the body requires them for good health but cannot
synthesize them.

60. IN-ORGANIC MINERAL SUPPLEMENTS
➢A mineral is a chemical element required as an essential nutrient by organisms, other than carbon, hydrogen,
nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur present in common organic molecules. These elements are classed as minerals in
the four groups of essential nutrients; the others are vitamins, essential fatty acids, and essential amino acids.
➢Major chemical elements in order of abundance in the human body include calcium, phosphorus, potassium,
sodium, chlorine, and magnesium. Important trace elements, necessary for mammalian life, include iron, cobalt,
copper, zinc, manganese, molybdenum, iodine, and selenium.

61. PROBIOTICS:
❖Live microorganisms that confer a health benefit on the host when administered in adequate
amounts.
Species of Lactobacillus and Bifido bacterium are most commonly used as probiotics, but the yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae and few other species are also used as probiotics.
Strictly speaking, however, the term “probiotic” should be reserved for live microbes that have been
shown in controlled human studies to impart a health benefit.

63. ➢HEALTH CLAIMS
❖Some probiotic preparations have been used to prevent diarrhea caused by antibiotics.
❖Studies have documented probiotic effects on a variety of gastrointestinal and extraintestinal disorders,
including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), vaginal infections, and immune
enhancement.
❖Some probiotics have been shown to increase survival of preterm neonates.
❖Probiotics have also been investigated in relation to atopic eczema and complications of liver cirrhosis.

64. PREBIOTICS
• Prebiotics are dietary substances (mostly consisting of non-starch
polysaccharides and oligosaccharides poorly digested by human enzymes)
that nurture a selected group of microorganisms living in the gut.
• They favor the growth of beneficial bacteria over that of harmful ones.
• Unlike probiotics, most prebiotics are used as food ingredients—in biscuits,
cereals, chocolate, spreads, and dairy products.

65. Commonly known prebiotics are:
• Oligofructose
• Inulin
• Galacto-oligosaccharides
• Lactulose
• Breast milk oligosaccharides
✓Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide used as a drug for the treatment of constipation and hepatic
encephalopathy.
✓The prebiotic oligofructose is found naturally in many foods, such as wheat, onions, bananas, honey, garlic
✓Oligofructose can also be isolated from chicory root or synthesized enzymatically from sucrose.

67. Fermentation of oligofructose in the colon results in a large number of
physiologic effects, including:
• Increasing the numbers of bifidobacteria in the colon
• Increasing calcium absorption
• Increasing fecal weight
• Shortening gastrointestinal transit time
• Possibly, lowering blood lipid levels
❖The increase in colonic bifidobacteria has been assumed to benefit human
health by producing compounds to inhibit potential pathogens, by reducing
blood ammonia levels, and by producing vitamins and digestive enzymes.

68. Parameters Probiotics
Prebiotics
Definition
Live microorganisms (usually
bacteria) that can have health
benefits when consumed in adequate
amounts
Non-digestible food ingredients that stimulate
the growth and/or activity of beneficial bacteria
in the gut
Source
Found in certain foods (e.g. yogurt,
kefir, sauerkraut) and dietary
supplements
Found in certain foods (e.g. onions, garlic,
bananas, whole grains) and dietary
supplements
Function
Helps restore or maintain a healthy
balance of bacteria in the gut
Provides food for beneficial bacteria in the gut,
helping them to grow and multiply
Examples
Lactobacillus acidophilus,
Bifidobacterium bifidum,
Streptococcus thermophilus
Inulin (from chicory), fructooligosaccharides
(FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS)
Benefits
May improve digestive health, boost
immune function, and reduce the risk
of certain diseases
May improve digestion, increase absorption of
nutrients, and support a healthy gut
microbiome
Side Effects
Generally safe, but may cause mild
digestive symptoms (e.g. bloating,
gas) in some people
Generally safe, but may cause mild digestive
symptoms (e.g. bloating, gas) in some people
with sensitive digestive systems
Dosage
Varies depending on the specific
strain and product
Varies depending on the specific type and
product
Storage
Should be stored in a cool, dry place
to maintain viability
N/A (prebiotics are typically consumed as part
of foods or supplements)

69. Omega-3-polyunsaturated fatty acids
▪Omega-3 fatty acids — also called ω-3 fatty acids or n-3 fatty acids— are polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs)
with a double bond (C=C) at the third carbon atom from the end of the carbon chain.

72. • The three types of omega-3 fatty acids involved in human physiology
are α-linolenic acid (ALA) (found in plant oils), eicosapentaenoic acid
(EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (both commonly found in
marine oils).
• Marine algae and phytoplankton are primary sources of omega-3 fatty
acids.
• Common sources of plant oils containing the omega-3 ALA fatty acid
include walnut, edible seeds, clary sage seed oil, flaxseed oil while
sources of animal omega-3 EPA and DHA fatty acids include fish oils,
squid oils etc.

73. • Dietary fibers: Dietary fiber is the part of food that
cannot be digested by our body.
• Dietary fiber can be simply divided into two types:
Soluble and Insoluble fiber.
• Both can be found in different types of food and
serve different functions in the body.
• Intake of adequate amount of foods rich in dietary
fiber helps in preventing of many chronic diseases
and improving body health.
• Prevention and relief of constipation: Dietary fiber
increases the bulk of stool and stimulates motion of
the large intestine.
• It absorbs water, lubricates the large intestine and
makes defecation easier.

74. •Helps in maintaining gut health: Dietary fiber stimulates the activity of “good”
bacteria in the intestine which might in turn maintain gut health.
•Protection against cancer of the large intestine: Dietary fiber prevents the
accumulation of cancer-causing (or carcinogenic) materials because it shortens
the retention period of waste materials.
•Weight-control and reduce the chance of being obese: Eating food rich in
dietary fiber relatively requires more time for chewing. This can make people
feel full easily, hence less food would be consumed.
•Helps in stabilizing of blood sugar level and controlling of diabetes: Soluble
fiber can slow down the absorption of blood sugar.
•Helps in lowering of blood cholesterol level, hence prevention of heart
disease: Soluble fiber combines with bile and then excretes it. This in turn lowers
blood cholesterol.

75. FOODS RICH IN DIETARY FIBRE:
•Cereals - Wholemeal bread, red rice, oatmeal
•Vegetables - Spinach
•Beans-Mung bean, kidney bean
•Fungi- Straw mushroom, button mushroom, white fungus, black fungus,
•Fruits - Orange, grapefruit
•Others- Sesame, chestnut, cashew nut, peanut

76. Diabetes and nutraceuticals
In recent years a wide range of herbal dietary supplements and herbal
medicines have scientifically proven to benefit type 2 diabetes mellitus in
preclinical studies however, few have been proven to do so in properly
designed randomized clinical trials.
Role of Nutraceuticals in ailments
• Isoflavones, are phytoestrogens which have structural/functional similarities to human estrogen.
• Soy isoflavones have been studied most and their consumption have been associated with lower incidence
and mortality rate of type II diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis and certain cancers.
• Omega-3 fatty acids have been suggested to reduce glucose tolerance in patients predisposed to diabetes.

77. Vitamin C :
➢ It is a chain breaking antioxidant and prevents the propagation of chain reactions.
➢ Vitamin C (800 mg/day) replenishes the Vitamin C levels in patients with type II Diabetes
mellitus.
➢ Low vitamin C level impair insulin resistance levels.

78. Calcium/Vitamin D:
➢ High calcium intake acts as protective to develop diabetes.
➢ It acts by suppressing secretion of Para Thyroid Harmone (PTH) and help to preserve
insulin sensitivity.
Vitamin E
➢ Essential fat soluble vitamin and acts mainly as an antioxidant.
➢Low levels of vitamin E produces increased frequency of diabetes.
➢Doses of vitamin E up to 400 IU are generally safe to use.

79. Fats
➢ High fat diet can damage glucose tolerance and promote obesity and these
abnormalities can be improved by reducing saturated fat intake.
➢Mono saturated fat such as olive and peanut oils have low glycaemic index.
Fibers
➢ Foods rich in fibers like fruits, vegetables and whole cereals provide
protective effects against chronic diseases and in lipid and glycemic
metabolism.

80. Chromium
➢Chromium supplements may increase glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in patients
with Type II Diabetes mellitus.
Magnesium
➢Magnesium rich diets significantly improves the insulin sensitivity (Adiposite insulin
sensitivity).
Alpha Lipoic acid
➢Naturally occurring antioxidant involve in chelation of heavy metals and regeneration of
other antioxidants such as glutathione, vitamin C and E.
➢Protects the injury to the retina which leads to visual loss (Diabetic retinopathy).

81. Vanadium:
➢Acts similar to insulin in transporting glucose in to the cells and useful in both type I and
type II Diabetes mellitus
➢ 45 – 150 mg/day useful in decreasing fasting blood glucose levels
Proteins:
➢Stimulates insulin secretion but excessive intake should be avoided as it may lead to
diabetic nephropathy
➢ Vegetable protein is preferred over animal protein as it is better for reducing serum
cholesterol and in the management of nephropathy
➢Soya, rice, egg, milk products etc.

82. • Lipoic acid is an antioxidant which is used for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy and
seems to be effective as a long-term dietary supplement for protection of diabetics
from complications.
• A lot of plants extracts such as Toucrium polium, cinnamon and bitter melon have
been shown to prevent or treat diabetes.

91. Cardiovascular diseases & nutraceuticals
• It is believed that low intake of vegetables and fruits is associated with a high mortality in CVD.
• Majority of the CVD are preventable.
• Many studies have reported a protective role for a diet rich in vegetables and fruits against CVD.
• Nutraceuticals in the form of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, dietary fibers and omega-3
polyunsaturated fatty acids (n−3 PUFAs) together with physical exercise are recommended for
prevention and treatment of CVD.
• The molecules such as polyphenols alter cellular metabolism and signaling, which is believed to
reduce arterial disease.

92. ✓Flavonoids block the angiotensin-converting enzyme, block the cyclooxygenase enzymes
that break down prostaglandins, and prevent platelet aggregation.
✓They also protect the vascular system that carries oxygen and nutrients to cells.
Anthocyanins, tannins (proanthocyanidins), tetrahydro-β-carbolines, stilbenes, dietary
indoleamines, serotonin and melatonin, in plant foods are hypothesized to impose
health benefits.

93. ✓Orange juice containing pulp is rich in flavonoids.
✓Hesperidin is a flavanone glycoside which is classified as a citrus bioflavonoid.
✓Citrus sinensis is among the rich dietary sources of hesperidin.
✓Hesperidin is used for the treatment of venous insufficiency and hemorrhoids.

94. Phytosterols
➢Plant sterols are known as phytosterols.
➢ Present in plants – Fruits, vegetables, nuts and cereals.
➢ Inhibit intestinal absorption of cholesterol, but do not affect HDL and VLDL.
Polyphenols
➢Include flavonoids, phenolic acids and stilbenes, found in fruits, vegetables, cereals,
beverages.
➢ Exert anti-atherosclerotic effects in the initial stages of atherosclerosis development and
increase nitric oxide release, which acts as a potent vasodilator and protects against
myocardial ischemia.

95. Flavonoids
➢Present in vegetables, fruits, beverages like cocoa, tea and wine.
➢Flavonoids exert their effect on heart due to their antioxidant activity.
➢ Inhibits platelet aggregation and lower oxide superoxide production.
Spirulina and Soy nutrients
➢Spirulina is a rich source of proteins, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids.
➢ Spirulina supplementation alters the blood lipid profile.
➢ Soy products are rich in PUFA, fibre, vitamins and minerals, have low saturated fat
content.

96. Curcumin
➢Curcumin prevents cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure.
➢Decreases serum lipid peroxides and total serum cholesterol.
➢ Reduces chronic inflammation induced by obesity and improves their vascular function.
Omega 3- fatty acid
➢Decrease inflammation and platelet aggregation, cause vasodilation and improve
myocardial function
➢Most commonly used for primary and secondary CVD.

97. Tomato and lycopene
➢Lycopene is a carotenoid present in red fruits and vegetables like
papayas, tomato, watermelon, red pepper etc.
➢ Lycopene reduces myocardial infarction and angina pectoris.
➢Most powerful anti oxidant and plays imp role in preventing CVD.
Garlic
➢Garlic is composed of sulphur compounds, proteins and amino
acids.
➢ It contains allicin which has potent anti platelet activity.
➢Inhibits platelet aggregation, enhances vasodilation and fibrinolysis.

98. ➢ Fibre content in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of cancer.
➢ Plant derivative polysaccharides act as protective role in development of cancer lesions.
➢Dietary supplements such as microalgae, plant derivatives and vegetables are a rich
source of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other micro nutrients.
➢Adequate utilization of dietary nutraceuticals is a sensible way to maintain health and
avoid the formation of cancer.
Health benefits of nutraceuticals in Cancer

99. Chestnut:
➢Chest nut extract possesses antioxidant activity and is protective against gastric cancer.
➢ Mild protective effect against prostate and breast cancer.
Berries
➢Blue, black and strawberries are good source of antioxidants and phenolic compounds.
➢ These berries act as chemo protective against breast cancer.
➢ Exerts anti cancer effect by inhibiting growth of cancer cells by which activities of
proteins involved in the oncogenesis gets interrupted in their path way.

100. Soy
➢Soy contains isoflavones, which reduce the risk of breast cancer particularly in
postmenopausal women
➢ Intake of high amount of soy reduced the risk of colorectal cancer
Garlic
➢Garlic is composed of sulphur compounds, proteins and amino acids
➢ Diallyl trisulphide prevents the development of prostate cancer and lung cancer.
➢ Acts by inhibiting the expression of androgen receptor which is actively involved in the
development of prostate cancer.
➢ Garlic oil is effective against liver cancer.

101. Green Tea
➢Green tea contains polyphenols which prevent the advancement of cancer.
➢ Protects the bladder against cell death, antioxidant potency of green tea reduces the
oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide in malignant/normal bladder cells.
Grape Seed
➢Effective in the prevention of skin cancer (UV rays induced) and decreases risk of
squamous cell carcinoma as it contains polyphenols and proanthocyanidin
➢ It also inhibit blood cancer and prostate cancer when taken as supplements.

102. Tomato and Red pepper:
➢Tomato contain lycopene ( carotenoid ) is a potent antioxidant , which is chemo-protective
against prostrate, breast and lung cancer
➢ Lycopene reduces myocardial infarction and angina pectoris
➢Capsaicin an active component of pepper inhibits the migration of skin cancer cells to
other body parts
Dietary fibre:
➢These fibres prevents constipation by increasing bulk of stool and hence reduces the risk
of colorectal cancer.
➢ Also reduce the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
➢ Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, sprouts contain dietary fibres.

103. Curcumin:
➢Derived from rhizomes of Curcuma longa, Zingiberaceae
➢ Used both in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine, especially in abdominal pain and bloating
➢Curcumin has anti-inflammatory activity and reduces mucosal injuries and useful in peptic
ulcer

104. Aloe Vera:
➢Contains potential anthroquinones, salicylates etc. acemannan
➢ Acemanan prevents stress induced gastric ulceration
➢ Stimulates the collagen synthesis, thus increases the ulcer healing process
Bael:
➢Ripe/half ripe fruits of Aegle marmelos, Rutaceae
➢ Luvangetin, a pyranocoumarin isolated from the seeds has been shown to protect gastric
mucosa in gastric ulceration
Health benefits of nutraceuticals in irritable bowel and GID

105. Honey:
➢It has capacity to stimulate tissue growth, enhance re- epithelization and minimize scar
formation.
➢ Effective against gastric ulcers induced by acetyl salicylic acid.
➢ Inhibits the growth of H Pylori responsible for gastritis, peptic ulcer.
Vitamins:
➢Fat soluble vitamins A and D have protective role in irritable bowel syndrome.
➢ Vitamin D deficiency produces mucosal inflammation.

106. Probiotics:
➢ Describing as a living organisms
➢When ingested with or without food improves the intestinal microbial balance and
consequently the health and functioning of large intestine
➢Approximately 95% of bacteria found in colon of human body, some of them are useful and
some of them harmful
➢Natural balance between these two play an imp role in the health and functioning of large
intestine
Health benefits of nutraceuticals in irritable bowel and GID

107. ➢Probiotics available in the form of tablets, capsules, powders and food form
Eg: Bifido bacteria found in yoghurt prevent young children suffering from diarrhoea

110. Botanical name : Leaves, seeds and stems of the plant Medicago sativa
Family: Fabaceae
Alfaalfa

112. ➢Alfalfa, also known as lucerne or Medicago sativa, is a plant that has been
grown as feed for livestock for hundreds of years.
➢ It was long prized for its superior content of vitamins, minerals and protein, compared to
other feed sources .
➢Its seeds or dried leaves can be taken as a supplement, or the seeds can be sprouted and
eaten in the form of alfalfa sprouts.
➢However, they are typically high in vitamin K and also contain many other nutrients,
including vitamin C, copper, manganese and folate.
➢Alfalfa sprouts contain the same nutrients and are also very low in calories.

113. ▪Alfalfa also has a high content of bioactive plant compounds. They include saponins,
coumarins, flavonoids, phytosterols, phytoestrogens and alkaloids.
▪Alfalfa’s cholesterol-lowering ability is its best studied health benefit to date.
▪Numerous studies in monkeys, rabbits and rats have shown that it can lower blood
cholesterol levels.

114. Alfaalfa is one of the most nutrient rich plants, known as father of foods.
Constituents:
Vitamins – B1, B6 and C
Minerals: Calcium, zinc and iron
Phytoestrogens: Alfalfa coumestrol, genistein, biocanine
Triterpenoid saponins, amino acid – L-Canavanine

116. Safety and Side Effects
✓Alfalfa may cause uterine stimulation or contractions. Therefore, it should be avoided
during pregnancy.

117. Health benefits:
Healthy skin :
➢Alfa Alfa chlorophyll is rich in vitamin A and enzymes. Vit A helps to maintain and
construct a healthy and glowing skin, helps to cure dry skin
Healthy hair:
➢Rich in Vitamin B1, B6 and Vit C and minerals, essential for proper growth and health of
hair, used to treat baldness and prevent of hair loss
➢Rich in proteins- helps in healthy hair.

118. Cardiac disease: Helps in elimination of bad cholesterol, thereby decreasing the risk of heart
diseases
Digestive problems: Gastritis, stomach ulcers, bloating, nausea can be prevented. Alfa
sprouts are also used in treating chronic constipation due to its high fiber content.
Cancer : Prevents the risk of cancer as it contains an amino acid known as canavanine.
UTI: It has diuretic property, which prevents disorders of kidney like water retention and
prevents developing of UTI.

119. Menopausal symptoms
Anti diabetic
Weight loss
Depression

120. Botanical name : Leaves, flowers & Roots of
Cichorium intybus, Family: Asteraceae
Chicory

121. Constituents
• Vitamins: A, B6, C, E and K
• Minerals: Zinc, magnesium,
manganese, calcium, iron
• Volatile oil
• Phytochemicals: Inulin, oligofructose,
coumarins, flavonoids, tannins,
alkaloids and sesquiterpene lactones

122. Health benefits
Digestion: Good for digestion as it contains inulin, which is a powerful
prebiotic. It is effective against acid reflux, heart burn as it reduces
the acidity.
Cardiac diseases: Inulin reduces the level of bad cholesterol, which is
main cause for atherosclerosis and high blood pressure, also
contributes for heart attack and stroke.
➢As it is low calorie vegetable acts as anti arrhythmic agent.

123. Anti cancer: Reduces tumor growth in various type of cancers, due to the presence of various fructans
which have anti oxidant properties.
Arthritis: used in the treatment of arthritis as it has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces the
pain in conditions like osteoarthritis.
Weight loss: Chicory is an excellent source of oligo fructose and inulin, which helps in the
management of weight by promoting weight loss. These help in the regulation of ghrelin, an amino
acid mainly connected with feelings of hunger.
Constipation: Inulin is a natural fibre and helps in bowel movements and peristaltic motions as well as
secretion of gastric juices. As a result digestion is improved and constipation is reduced.
Chicory

124. Improves immunity: Powerful booster for immune system, it has anti bacterial effects and
act as immune system booster. Various phyto chemicals present in it acts as antioxidants
and improves immunity
Relieves anxiety: Chicory has sedative effects, which reduce anxiety and soothe the mind,
thereby relieve stress
Kidney disorders: Root extract has diuretic effect which increaser urine volume. Frequent
urination helps to eliminate toxins stored in liver and kidney, thus prevent the dangerous
condition that occur when toxins are allowed to remain in the body
Chicory

125. Botanical name : Dried leaves and seeds of Trigonella foenum graecum
Family: Fabaceae
Fenugreek

126. Health benefits:
➢To enhance milk production in new mothers
➢ Fenugreek seeds commonly used as a supplement to control blood glucose level, especially
to prevent or treat diabetes.
➢ Used to treat skin inflammation as it has anti inflammatory and anti oxidant activities.
➢ To reduce appetite, menstrual cramps and fever, to balance cholesterol, to sooth muscle
pain.
Fenugreek

127. • Fenugreek seeds are tiny, bitter, dicotyledonous seeds of the fenugreek herb. They exhibit
a strongly aromatic and pungent flavor when toasted gently.
• Traditionally, fenugreeks have been used to cure digestive problems and to improve
breast milk secretion in nursing mothers.
Health benefits of fenugreek seeds
➢Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of minerals, vitamins, and phytonutrients.
➢The seeds compose ample amounts of soluble dietary fiber. Soaking them in water softens their outer coat
and turns it slimy (mucilaginous).
➢These compounds help lower blood LDL-cholesterol levels by inhibiting bile salts re-absorption in the
colon. They also bind to toxins in the food and contribute to protecting the colon mucosa from cancers.

128. ▪It has been established that amino acid 4-hydroxy isoleucine in the fenugreek seeds has facilitator action on
insulin secretion. Besides, fiber in them slow down the rate of glucose absorption in the intestines and thus
help better regulate blood sugar levels. Fenugreek seeds are therefore one of the recommended food
ingredients in the diabetic diet.
▪The seeds contain many phytochemical compounds such as choline, trigonelline diosgenin, yamogenin,
gitogenin, tigogenin, and neotigogens. Together, these compounds attribute for the medicinal properties of
fenugreek.
▪This prized spice is an excellent source of minerals like copper, potassium, calcium, iron, selenium, zinc,
manganese, and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control
heart rate and blood pressure by countering action on sodium. Iron is essential for red blood cell production
and as a co-factor for cytochrome-oxidases enzymes.
Health benefits of fenugreek seeds

129. Botanical name : Roots of Panax ginseng
Family: Araliaceae
Ginseng

130. Constituents:
Vitamins – Niacin and Riboflavin
Minerals – Iron, manganese, zinc, Copper
Phytochemicals – Ginseng saponins – Gensenosides or Panaxosides, triterpens of
dammarane and oleanane
Ginseng

131. Health benefits:
Alzheimer’s Disease: Root of ginseng Improves the mental performance in people with
alzheimer”s disease
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease: Improves lung function and ,many symptoms of
COPD
Mental function: Ginseng improves abstract thinking, mental arithmetic skills in healthy
middle aged people. In combination with ginkgo leaf extract improves memory
Ginseng

132. Erectile dysfunction: Improves sexual function in men with erectile dysfunction and also
helps to prevent premature ejaculation.
Flu: Reduces the risk of getting cold or flu by improving immunity.
Diabetes: Help to lower blood sugar by stimulating the production of insulin in pancreas
Increases energy: Stimulates the physical and mental activity in people who weak and tired
Ginseng

133. • The name ginseng means “essence of the earth in the form of aman. ”(In
Chinese, ginis“man”and sengis a fleshy root used as a tonic).

134. • Ginseng, being a rich source of useful secondary metabolites, has been
used in Asia for more than 5000 years ago and is known as a king of the
tonic herbs.
• The Panax ginseng has different types/forms based on their processing
methods e.g. Fresh(less than 4 years, eaten as fresh), white ginseng (4–6
years, peeled and dried in oven or air), Red ginseng (6 years old,
unpeeled, steamed), and Sun ginseng (steamed white ginseng at high
temperature and pressure)

135. ❖Ginger is a tropical flowering plant that originally grew in Southeast Asia but is now widely available
from growers around the world. It's classified as a member of the Zingiberaceae family, making it a close
relative of turmeric.
❖The scientific name for ginger is Zingiber officinalis.
❖Ginger can be eaten fresh, dried and stored as a spice, or made into tablets, capsules, and liquid extracts.
There’s about 2 percent of essential oil in the root, which is used in the cosmetic industry as a fragrance in
soaps and beauty products.
Ginger

136. There are lots of different vitamins and minerals in ginger. 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger has: 4.8 calories
•1.07 grams (g) of carbohydrate
•.12 g of dietary fiber
•.11 g of protein
•.05 g fat
•.1 g of sugar
Vitamins and minerals present in fresh ginger in trace amounts:
➢Vitamin B3 and B6
➢Iron
➢Potassium
➢Vitamin C
➢Magnesium
➢Phosphorus
➢Zinc
➢Folate
➢Riboflavin
➢Niacin

138. GARLIC
• Most of the beneficial effects of garlic are due to the presence of the organosulphate
molecule allicin.
• Allicin is a highly unstable molecule and, during processing, is rapidly transformed into
a variety of organosulfur components.
• The enzyme alliinase, which is responsible for the conversion of alliin to allicin, is
irreversibly destroyed at the acidic environment of stomach.

140. Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is an important and widely cultivated plant with both culinary and medicinal
uses stemming from its biological activities, which include antibiotic, anticancer, anti-thrombotic,
and lipid-lowering cardiovascular effects.
Though such medicinal use of garlic existed for centuries, there was little scientific support
for its therapeutic and pharmacological properties.

141. • It is considered that Allicin is responsible for antibiotic properties and strong odor; it also
shows fibrinolytic activity which reduces platelet aggregation by inhibiting
prostaglandin E2. Ajoene also contributes to the anticoagulant action of garlic.
• Apart from this garlic also contains citral, geraniol, linalool, Aphellandrene and B
phellandrene. The allyl contained in garlic is also found in several members of the onion
family and is considered a very valuable therapeutic compound.

142. Alliin and diallyl dysulphur are highly unstable substances and melt easily into liquids
and gases. When transported by the blood, they infuse all tissues and organs of the body,
thus they act on the whole body.
Dosage and dosage form Garlic supplement preparations are available in oil, extract,
powder, capsules and tablet forms.

144. Honey
B Source: Honey is viscous, sugary secretion obtained from honey comb of Apis mellifera
and Apis dorsata
Family: Apidae
• Bees produce honey from nectar of flowers by enzymatic activity
• Honey is collected from honey comb, either from wild bee colonies or from hives of
domesticated bees.

146. Health food: Honey
Synonym: Madhu, Saradha, Madvika, Makshika
Biological Source: Honey is produced from the nectar of flowers by Apis mellifera.
Honey bee convert nector of flower into honey by processes called regurgitation (spitting
the nectar from mouth of one honey bee to other) and evaporation using enzymes present
in their gut. It is stored as primary food. It is golden amber colour liquid.

147. Health benefits of Honey:
▪It is useful for eyes and good vision, balances kapha, reduce toxicity, stops
hiccups, for bleeding disorders, urinary tract disorders, diabetic, skin diseases,
worm infections etc.
▪It relieves constipation, stomach pain, nasal congestion, mouth sores, burns
and for obesity.
▪Honey is used in treatment of gastrointestinal infection such as gastrititis,
duodenitis and gastric ulceration.
▪It inhibits attachment of bacteria to gut cells by forming coat around bacteria
or alter bacterial electrostatic charge. Honey act as anti-inflammatory agent by
reducing activities of cyclooxygenase-1 and 2. It is use as antioxidant.
Recommended dose: 1-2 tsp of honey can be taken daily.

148. Health benefits of Honey
➢Anti-cancer effects: Honey modifies immune responses, prevent cell proliferation,
induces apoptosis, antimutagenic etc.

149. ➢Cardiovascular diseases: (Flavonoids, polyphenolics, vit C and monophenolics) Improves
coronary vasodilation, reduces the ability of platelets in blood to clot and inhibits low
density lipoproteins from oxidizing.
➢Neurological diseases: (Polyphenols) Prevents memory disorders and induce memory
production at the molecular level.
➢Gastrointestinal diseases: Exerts antibacterial activity against Helicobacter pylori, also treats
gastroenteritis.
Health benefits of Honey

150. Amla
B Source: fresh/dried fruits of Emblica officinalis /Phyllanthus emblica
• Amla is a subtropical plant, is small or medium sized tree, fruits are fleshy.

151. Āmla , commonly known as Indian Gooseberry is the fruit of Emblica officinalis Gaertn. (Syn.: Phyllanthus
emblica Linn.), an important medicinal plant belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae/ Phyllanthaceae. Āmla
occupies a significant place in traditional and folk medicine, and also a religious significance.
In Indian mythology, it is believed to be the first tree to be created in the universe, and known as
the, ‘fruit of heaven’ or ‘nectar fruit’. Its Sanskrit name Āmlaki translates into ‘The Fruit where the
Goddess of Prosperity Resides’ and the tree is worshipped in Hindu religion for the numerous benefits it
provides

152. Āmla is the richest source of Vitamin C. the fruit juice
contains the highest amount of Vitamin C (478.56 mg/ 100 ml)
as compared to other fruits such as lime, grapes, pomegranate
and apples.
Vitamin C

153. Amla
Constituents:
• Vitamins - Amla is a rich source of vit C (760mg/100g)
• Minerals – Zinc, copper, Chromium
• Amino acids – Alanine, lysine, proline, aspartic acid
• Phyto constituents: Phyllemblin and curcuminoides

154. Health benefits of Amla
➢Immunity booster
➢Treats respiratory disorders
➢Manages diabetes
➢Remedy for heart disorder
➢Cures eye disorder
➢Prevents aging
➢Cures anaemia
➢Enhances food absorption
➢Helps urinary system
➢Good for skin
➢Promotes healthier hair
➢Remedy for Scurvy

155. Ashwagandha
Biological Source : Dried leaves, roots and stem bases of Withania somnifera
Family: Solanaceae, short perennial shrub

156. Chemical constituents
Triterpene lactones : Withanolides- which include withaferin-A, alkaloids, steroidal
lactones, tropine.
Ashwagandha

157. Health benefits of ashwagandha
➢Reduces blood sugar levels
➢Anti-cancer properties
➢Reduces cortisol levels
➢Boosts testosterone and increase fertility in men
➢Increase muscle mass and strength
➢Reduces inflammation
➢Lowers cholesterol and triglycerides
➢Improves brain function and memory

158. Herbs as health food: Ashwagandha
✓Due to presence of saponins it act as potent anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory agent.
✓Withaferin A shows antibiotic against Gram-positive bacteria acid-fast and aerobic bacilli,
and pathogenic fungi.
Side effects: Stomach upset, diarrhoea and vomiting
Recommended dose: 125 mg to 5 gm per day.

159. Health food: Spirulina
Synonym: Arthospira, Dihe, Cynobateria
Biological source: It consists of a blue green microalgae of different species like Spirulina
maxima (Artrospira maxima), Spirulina platensia (A. plantensis), and Spirulina fusiformis
(Arthospira fusiformis) of family Oscillatoriaceae.

160. Chemical Constituents of Spirulina
➢ It is a rich source of proteins (58 %) and also
contains carbohydrates (30 %), fat (8%), dietary
fibers (3 %), sugars (3 % ) etc.
➢Spirulina shows presence of fatty acids such as
α and γ linoleic acid, linolenic acid,
docosahexaenoic acid, arachidonic acid, Omega
3 and 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

161. Health food: Spirulina
❖It is potent antifungal agent.
❖It also possess antiviral property against Herpes simplex type-I, measles
virus, HIV-I and influenza virus.
❖It shows free radical scavenging activity.
❖It improves activity of antioxidant enzyme like GSH,SOD, CAT, GSH and also
reduces lipid peroxidation. Hence it has antioxidant effect.

162. Health food: Spirulina
Side effects: Spirulina may cause side effects such as headache, allergic
reactions, muscle pain, sweating and insomnia etc.

163. INTRODUCTION:
•Herbal medicines remain the major source of health care, in spite of tremendous growth in modern medicinal
system, WHO has recognized herbal medicines as an essential building block for primary health care of
vast countries like India.
•In last two to three decades herbal based product in cosmetics and medicines has invited attention of not only
press to common public but also that of the scientific community world over.
•Modern therapeutic system has already accepted the potential of the herbs as a source of new bioactive
constituents that have been already found useful in different alternative systems of medicine.
Herbal-Drug and Herb-Food Interactions

164. • Interaction is said to occur when the effect of one drug is altered by the presence of
another drug(s), food or drink.
• When a therapeutic combination could lead to an unexpected change in the condition of
the patient, this would be described as an interaction of potential clinical significance.
• The net effect of the combination may be synergism or additive effect of one or more
drugs, antagonism or negative effect of one or more drugs, alteration of the effect of one
or more drugs or the production of idiosyncratic effects.
• A drug–drug interaction can be defined as the effect that one drug has on another.

172. •MECHANISM OF HERBAL-DRUG INTERACTIONS:
1. PHARMACODYNAMIC
2. PHARMACOKINETIC MECHANISMS.

175. Drug interaction with food
• People taking digoxin should avoid licorice as it contains glycyrrhizin. Together they
interact to produce irregular heart rhythms and cardiac arrest.
• Licorice and diuretics lower the potassium levels, cause numbness weakness, muscle pain
and even paralysis.
• Grapefruit juice interact with calcium channel blockers such as Procardia, Nifedipine,
and Verapamil, anti-psychiatric medication, estrogen, oral contraceptive and certain
anti-allergic drugs such as Seldane, Hismanal.

176. •Orange juice must not be consumed with antacids containing aluminum. The juice
increases the absorption of aluminum and leads to severe constipation. Orange Juice and
milk should be avoided with taking antibiotics, as they decrease its effectiveness.
•Milk contains elements like Mg and Ca which chelate antibiotics like tetracycline and
hence decrease its absorption and effect. Milk does not mix with laxatives which contain
bisacodyl (Correctol and Dulcolax).
•Large amount of oatmeal and other highfiber cereals should not be eaten with digoxin,
as it interferes with drug absorption. A professional expert could recommend dietary
changes after carefully examining the digoxin levels

177. 1. St. JOHN’s Wort (Hypercium)
Synonym: Amber, Demon Chaser, Goat weed
Biological Source: It consists of aerial parts of Hypercium
perforatum of family: Hypericaceae
Herbal-Drug and Herb-Food Interactions

179. Herbal-Drug Interactions:
➢It increases metabolism of anti-anxiety drug alprazolam, hence decreases its
effectiveness.
➢It might decrease the effect of cardiotonic drug, digoxin (Lanoxin) by reducing its
absorption.
➢Methadone is a narcotic pain reliever, Hypercium decreases it effect by induction of
CYP34A, 2C8 and CYP2D6.
➢When administered with warfarin it might increase the risk of blood clotting.

180. Possible Side Effect of Hypercium: When taken orally up to 12 weeks, it is considered to
be safe.
Its possible side effects includes troubled sleeping, vivid dreams, anxiety, irritability,
stomach upset, fatigue, dry moth, dizziness, headache, skin rashes etc.

181. 2. Kava Kava
➢ Synonym: Ava Pepper, Ava Root, Awa
➢ Biological source: It consists of dried roots of plant Piper methysticum
Family: Piperaceae
➢ Chemical Constituents: The roots consists of 12 % water, 43 % starch
and 20 % fibers, protein and minerals. The main phytoconstituents
found in kava roots are kavalactones, chalcones and other flavonones.
Kawain, methysticin, yangonin.

182. Uses of Kava: It is reported to possess anti-anxiety, anti-stress property. Also it is known to decrease
menopausal symptoms. It may use in treatment of cancer, antiepileptic and to treat headache.
Herb Drug Interactions:
✓ Kava when taken with alprazolam may cause drowsiness
✓ It interacts with CNS depressant medications such as clonazepam, lorazepam, phenobarbital etc and
may cause drowsiness.
✓ Kava may cause side effects by decreasing liver metabolism of drugs such as clozapine, fluvoxamine,
imipramine, diclofenac etc.
✓ It is well reported to enhance the absorption of etoposides, paclitaxel, vinblastine, vincristine, ranitidine
causing side effects.
✓ The hepatotoxicity is associated with Kava when administered with methyldopa, erythromycin,
acetaminophen, isoniazid etc.

184. Possible side effects of Kava Kava:
❖It may damage liver and aggravate symptoms of depression and
Parkinson’s disease.
❖It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation.
❖It may cause severe adverse effects on GI discomfort,
rhanbdomyolysis.

185. 3.Ginkgo Biloba
Synonym: Maidenhair tree
Biological source: It consists of dried leaves of Ginkgo biloba, belonging to family:
Ginkgoceae
Chemical Constituents: The leaves reported to contain flavonoid glycosides,
proanthocynidins and terpenoids.
Quercitin and rutin are found to be the major constituents along with kaempherol,
Isorhamnetin etc in the leaves of the plant material.
The terpene lactones such as Ginkgolide A, B and C, Bilobalide and Ginkogotoxin.

186. Uses of Ginkgo: It In various clinical and preclinical studies, the plant
material elicited anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity.
The plant has antilipidemic, antidiabetic and antioxidant activity.
It reduces anxiety and treats dementia related to Alzheimer's diseases. The
also act as anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-proliferative agent

187. Herbal-Drug Interactions of Ginkgo:
❑It may slow down the liver metabolism of certain drugs such as Clozapine,
cyclobenzapine, Imipramine, theophylline and hence it may cause severe liver toxicity and
may reduce the therapeutic effect of the drugs.
❑Hydrochlorothiazide when administered with ginkgo may cause deleterious/adverse
effect.
❑Ginkgo when taken along the medication such as anaesthetics, antiarrhythmics,
antibiotics and stimulants may enhance the chances of seizures in few patients.
❑Ginkgo and Hypercium along with fluoxetine may cause hypomania.
❑It may lead to over excitation of CNS, when administered with buspirone

188. Possible side effects of Ginkgo:
➢It cause stomach upset, headache, dizziness, constipation, increase heart
beat and allergic and skin reactions etc.
➢High dose of leaf extract increase risk of liver and thyroid cancers.
➢The seeds leads to seizures and death. In patients with G6PD deficiency
ginkgo may cause severe anaemia. It is not contraindicated in pregnancy and
lactation.

189. 4. Ginseng
Uses: Evidence based validation of its traditional uses to treat depression, anxiety,
fatigue, anemia, sclerosis, bronchitis, pre-diabetes and diabetes inflammation of
stomach lining and fever.

190. Herb Drug Interactions of Ginseng:
✓It is well reported to exhibit adverse reaction such as increased heart rate and CNS
stimulation when taken with caffeine.
✓It inhibits the effect of furosemide
✓Ginseng inhibits the metabolism of medications such as methadone, ondosetron,
tramadol thereby increasing their side effects or organ toxicity.
✓It is also well reported to interfere in ADME of immunosuppressant drugs thus leads to
the decrease the effectiveness of drugs like cyclosporine, orthoclone, azathioprine etc.
✓Ginseng known to have anticoagulant effects, hence it may lead to bruising and bleeding
when given with antiplatelets drugs such as aspirin.

192. 5. Garlic
Uses of Garlic: It act as aphrodiasiac, carminative, expectorant, stimulant. It is use to teat
fever, hyperlipidemia, TB, diabetes and infections and prevent arteriosclerosis.
Herb-Drug Interactions:
➢It may increase bleeding time with anticoagulants.
➢It is reported to induce hepatic enzyme metabolism of protease inhibitors like ritonavir,
indinavir etc. Thus leads to decrease blood levels of protease and result in toxicity.
➢With antidiabetic drug like chlorpropamide, may produce antihyperglycemic effect.
➢Garlic decreases blood pressure, hence administered with antihypertensive drugs may
lead to hypotensive shock.

194. Possible Side effects of Garlic:
Allergic reactions such as difficulty in breathing,
swelling, heart burn, vomiting are observed

195. 6. Pepper
Synonym: Black pepper, Kali miri, Pippali
Biological Source: Dried ripe fruits of Piper nigrum of family: Piperaceae
Chemical Constituents: Fruit contains 1-2.5 % of volatile oil. It contains alkaloid Piperine in
four isomer ic forms such as Piperine, Isopiperine, Chavicine and Isochavicine.
Eugenol, Carophyllene, Limonene, Piperamine are the other chemical constituents
reported to be present in the fruit oil of piper longum.

197. Uses of Pepper: It is known to possess therapeutic activities such as antihypertensive,
antiplatelets, antioxidant, anticancer, antiashtamatic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory,
antispasmodic, antidepressant and immunomodulatory .
It is well reported to increase absorption of drugs and nutrients in the body. Hence it is
known as bio enhancer.

198. Herbal Drug Interactions of Pepper:
▪Being a bioenhancer, it leads to the increased in the absorption of the drugs and thereby
reduce the therapeutic effect of the drugs given with pepper.
▪Example: Antifungal drugs (Ketoconazole, itaconazole), Vincristine, erythromycin,
theophylline etc.
▪Piperine is reported to have antidiabetic property, hence if given with antidiabetic drugs
like insulin, glyburide, it may lead to hypoglycemic shock.
Possible side effects: In large dose may cause miscarriage, hence contraindicated in
pregnancy

199. 7. Ephedra
Synonym: Ma-Huang, Yellow horse, Pinella
Biological Source: It consists of dried young stem of Ephedra gerardiana, E.
Nebrodensis, E. Sinina and E. Equisetina family: Ephedriacease.
Chemical Constituents: It consist of 1 % of amino alkaloid such as ephedrine,
pseudoephidrine, norpseudoephedrine, norephedrine , including quinoline and
tannins.

200. Uses of Ephedra: It is used in asthma, bronchitis, bronchospasm, allergic nasal
congestion, flu and other breathing problems.
Herb-Drug Interactions:
➢ Ephedrine elevates blood pressure and heart rate when given with CNS stimulant
drugs.
➢ Ephedrine enhances the metabolism of dexamethasone thereby decrease the effect of
the drug.
Possible Side effects: It may cause side effects such as dizziness, anxiety, restlessness,
headache, loss of apetite etc.