Vol. 3, Issue 1, Part A (2026)

Ethnopharmacological knowledge has long served as a foundational source for the discovery of therapeutically useful plant-derived agents. Numerous medicinal plants employed in traditional healthcare systems are reputed for their efficacy, yet many remain insufficiently evaluated for safety and toxicological acceptability. The present article focuses on the ethnopharmacological validation of a locally used medicinal plant, with particular emphasis on preliminary safety assessment and mild toxicological profiling. Traditional claims surrounding the plant indicate its use in managing inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal discomfort, and minor infections, suggesting the presence of bioactive phytoconstituents with therapeutic relevance. However, the continued reliance on such remedies necessitates scientific validation to ensure their safe consumption, especially in the context of increasing global interest in herbal medicines.

This research synthesizes available ethnobotanical information with experimental evidence related to phytochemical composition, dosage practices, and short-term toxicity outcomes. Special attention is given to acute and sub-acute toxicity indicators, including behavioral changes, body weight variation, and basic biochemical markers, which collectively provide insight into the safety margin of the plant extract. The absence of severe toxic manifestations at traditionally relevant doses supports the notion that the plant may possess a favorable safety profile when used appropriately. Nonetheless, minor, dose-dependent physiological variations observed in experimental models underscore the importance of dosage regulation and controlled usage.

By integrating traditional knowledge with preliminary toxicological data, this article highlights the value of ethnopharmacological approaches in identifying plant-based therapies that are not only effective but also safe. The findings reinforce the need for systematic safety evaluation as a critical component of herbal drug development. Overall, the research contributes to bridging the gap between traditional medicine and evidence-based pharmacology, promoting the rational and responsible use of local medicinal plants in primary healthcare systems.