The use of medicinal plants dates back to ancient times, with early humans seeking remedies in nature. Over centuries, this practice evolved from empirical methods to a more scientific understanding, leading to the inclusion of plant-derived drugs in modern pharmacotherapy. Ancient civilizations such as Sumerians, Chinese, Indians, and Egyptians documented the use of various plants for healing. The Ebers Papyrus, dating back to 1550 BC, lists 800 plant-based treatments. In Greek and Roman times, figures like Theophrast and Dioscorides contributed significantly to the classification and study of medicinal plants. Dioscorides' work "De Materia Medica" became a foundational text in pharmacognosy, describing over 900 plants and their uses. The Arabs also played a crucial role in introducing new medicinal plants and expanding pharmacological knowledge. During the Middle Ages, monasteries became centers for the cultivation and use of medicinal plants. The 17th century saw the discovery of alkaloids, marking the beginning of scientific pharmacy. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a shift towards synthetic drugs, but the importance of plant-based medicines was reaffirmed. Today, many pharmacopoeias recognize the value of plant-derived drugs, and herbal medicines are widely used in various countries. The historical use of medicinal plants continues to influence modern pharmacology and therapy.The use of medicinal plants dates back to ancient times, with early humans seeking remedies in nature. Over centuries, this practice evolved from empirical methods to a more scientific understanding, leading to the inclusion of plant-derived drugs in modern pharmacotherapy. Ancient civilizations such as Sumerians, Chinese, Indians, and Egyptians documented the use of various plants for healing. The Ebers Papyrus, dating back to 1550 BC, lists 800 plant-based treatments. In Greek and Roman times, figures like Theophrast and Dioscorides contributed significantly to the classification and study of medicinal plants. Dioscorides' work "De Materia Medica" became a foundational text in pharmacognosy, describing over 900 plants and their uses. The Arabs also played a crucial role in introducing new medicinal plants and expanding pharmacological knowledge. During the Middle Ages, monasteries became centers for the cultivation and use of medicinal plants. The 17th century saw the discovery of alkaloids, marking the beginning of scientific pharmacy. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a shift towards synthetic drugs, but the importance of plant-based medicines was reaffirmed. Today, many pharmacopoeias recognize the value of plant-derived drugs, and herbal medicines are widely used in various countries. The historical use of medicinal plants continues to influence modern pharmacology and therapy.