Phytotherapeutic agent rationales

Rational phytotherapeutics (phytopharmacon: from - Greek - phyton for plant and pharmakon for drug) are drugs which, in contrast to chemically defined pharmaceuticals, as well as isolated, chemically identified, pure plant substances, mainly contain standardized and / or standardized extracts. They are predominantly multi-substance mixtures which are effective in the organism at different molecular target structures.

Rational phytotherapeutics are applied by physicians according to the generally valid principles of drug therapy. Their effect and efficacy have been proven on the basis of animal and human pharmacologically documented findings and, in accordance with the guidelines of the German Medicines Act (AMG §4 Para. 23), have also been proven taking into account the knowledge gained from medical experience.

Phytopharmaceuticals are variable natural products. Today, only well standardized extracts are increasingly used as a basis for a consistent effect. This requires a controlled extract quality. However, this can only be guaranteed if the standardized plant material is processed in a traceable, consistent, standardized manufacturing process. Such a quality control is to be demanded from the medical point of view.

1. Falch B et al (2013) Phytotherapy - the well-documented basis of orthodox medicine. Swiss medical journal 94:161-163
2. Hermann PT et al (2014) Pharmaceutical Dictionary. De Gruyter GmbH Berlin, Boston
3. Keller K et al (2003) Phytopharmaceuticals. Definitions and backgrounds. Federal Health Gazette 46: 1036-1039
4. Loew D et al (1999) Phytopharmaceutical report. stone head Darmstadt S 7-12