Reverse Pharmacology Effectuated by Studies of Ayurvedic Products for Arthritis

Reverse pharmacology (RP) is a trans-disciplinary path for drug discovery and development from bedside observations on drug effects to bench-side experiments. This approach generates evidence of safety and efficacy at different levels of biological organization, ranging from cell to community. Eventually the innovative integration of research methods will be translated back to the bedside as a new drug. The experiential wisdom of traditional systems like Ayurveda is scientifically explored by systematic RP. This is meant to enrich modern medicine, by the relevant application of the drug discovery sciences. The evidence by RP would also help to rationally understand Ayurveda. This article highlights how the bedside experience in arthritis has been translated by RP into evidence by defined experimental and clinical studies. There is a need to understand and apply the basic principles and practices of Ayurveda in the specific protocols and models in RP so as to truly integrate effective and safe usage for definite indications. The article also discusses the RP approach for Ayurvedic medicines used for treatment of arthritis.