A Review on Illustrated Manual of Herbal Drugs Used in Ayurveda by Y. K. Sarin: An Aid IN Preventing Adulteration and Substitution

Abstract

The authenticity of crude herbal drugs is fundamental to the safety, efficacy, and credibility of Ayurveda. However, adulteration and substitution remain persistent challenge due to rising demand, overexploitation of plants, and scarcity of genuine sources. This trend also existed in ancient times, as apparent from the concept of Pratinidhi Dravya (substitute drugs) as mentioned in our classical text books. Nowadays the concept of substitution is entirely converted into intentional and unintentional malpractices of adulteration. The book ‘Illustrated Manual of Herbal Drugs Used in Ayurveda’ by Dr. Y. K. Sarin (1996) serves as an authoritative reference for the identification and authentication of commonly used Ayurvedic drugs. In addition to that this book has emphasized how to identify the adulteration and substitution in herbal drugs. This review covers 216 herbal drugs which is arranged in a table according to their part being adulterated make them more understandable and easier to access. Result shows that adulteration is most frequent in underground parts such as roots, rhizomes, and tubers (approximately 40%). Stem bark about 15%, while fruits and seeds together is nearly 20%. There is a pressing need to address adulteration and substitution in crude herbal drugs, which compromise safety and efficacy of herbal drugs. The present review aims to evaluate the book, with a focus on its contribution to the authentication of crude herbal drugs, identification of adulteration and substitution practices, and its significance in ensuring standardization and safety in Ayurvedic medicine.