What are phytomedicines also known as?

Phytomedicines are also referred to as phytopharmaceuticals. This term emphasizes their role as medicinal products derived from plants, specifically highlighting that these formulations have pharmaceutical applications. Phytopharmaceuticals are typically made from various plant parts, such as leaves, roots, or flowers, and may contain bioactive compounds that contribute to their therapeutic effects.

The terminology reflects the integration of phytotherapy within modern biomedical practices, where plant-based substances are scientifically evaluated and utilized for their health benefits. This recognition in the field of medicine indicates a progression from traditional herbal remedies to more rigorously tested and regulated medicines derived from plant sources, thus enhancing the credibility of herbal medicine in the healthcare system.

The other options, while related to plants and their compounds, do not specifically capture the medicinal aspect indicated by phytomedicines. Phytochemicals refer to the chemical compounds produced by plants that are often studied for their health-promoting properties but do not imply a medicinal preparation. Natural compounds encompass a broader range of substances found in nature and may not necessarily have a medicinal application. Herbal extracts suggest a concentrated form of plant material but do not specifically indicate that these extracts are standardized for pharmaceutical use.