Ancient medicine dosage forms: a historical review

Abstract

Ancient medicine dosage forms represent the earliest systematic attempts to prepare, preserve, and deliver therapeutic substances to the human body. Civilizations across the world—including India, China, Egypt, Greece, and the Middle East—developed unique methods for processing herbs, minerals, and animal products to enhance their medicinal value and ensure patient acceptability. In ancient India, Ayurveda introduced a wide variety of formulations such as Churna (powders), Kashaya (decoctions), Vati/Gutika (pills), Asava–Arishta (fermented liquids), Ghrita (medicated ghee), and Taila (medicated oils), each designed with specific therapeutic intentions and principles related to dosha balance. Similarly, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) utilized preparations like Tang (decoctions), San (powders), Gao (pastes), and Wan (pills), reflecting deep understanding of herb compatibility and extraction techniques. Unani medicine offered formulations such as Sharbat (syrups), Majun (electuaries), Safoof (powders), and Roghan (oils), emphasizing temperament-based healing.Natural excipients such as honey, ghee, milk, jaggery, and plant-based resins played essential roles as preservatives, binders, and carriers. Although modern pharmaceutics now relies on advanced chemistry and technology, many foundational principles—including drug standardization, extraction processes, fermentation, and patient-centred delivery—trace their origin to ancient practices. These dosage forms not only exemplify the scientific ingenuity of early healers but also continue to inspire contemporary drug research, natural product development, and holistic healthcare systems.