Bridging cosmos and clinic: Ethnobotanical investigations of Indian astro-herbalism

Abstract

This letter proposes a multidisciplinary research program to scientifically investigate Indian astro-herbalism, a culturally significant yet undocumented practice linking planetary influences to plant-based remedies. Despite skepticism, this approach has historically yielded effective drugs. The program will involve ethnographic mapping, phytochemical profiling, mechanistic studies, and preclinical/clinical evaluations of astrologically associated herbs like Asparagus racemosus and Bacopa monnieri. This inquiry aims to identify pharmacologically active compounds aligned with traditional indications, contributing to ethnopharmacology and biocultural drug discovery, and aligning with WHO's call for integrating traditional medicine into modern healthcare.