Anti-infective Properties of Therapeutic Herbs against Pulmonary Infections

Traditional medicine is a consolidation of knowledge, skill and practices based on theories, beliefs and experiences indigenous to different cultures, used for therapeutic, restorative, prevention, diagnosis and maintenance of physical and mental health. Traditional medicinal systems are recognized globally for complementing disease prevention, treatment and generic health maintenance. There is widespread use of traditional medicines across developing countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America with quickly emerging markets in North America and Europe [Bannerman, 1988; WHO, 2000; Debas et al., 2006]. The 67th World Health Assembly resolution on traditional medicine has been instrumental in the development of updated WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy (2014-2023) with aims to harness its involvement and promote effective use [WHO, 2013]. India is known for its traditional medicinal systems- Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani. Medical systems are found mentioned in the ancient Vedas and other scriptures. The Ayurvedic concept appeared and developed between 2500 and 500 BC in India [Subhose, et al., 2005]. The literal meaning of Ayurveda is "science of life," because ancient Indian system of health care focused on views of man and his illness. It has been pointed out that the positive health means metabolically well balanced human beings. Ayurveda is also called the "science of longevity" because it offers a complete system to live a long healthy life. Alternative medicines are being used by about 60% of the world's population.