A REVIEW OF PARACETAMOL AND MIRACULOUS ETHNOMEDICINAL HERBS AS SUBSTITUTE FOR PARACETAMOL

Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) or PCM is the most commonly used pain-relieving and antipyretic drug in the world. It is easily available in the market without any recommendation or prescription from physicians. World Health Organization (WHO) considers Paracetamol to be an important medicine in a basic health system. This drug is available worldwide in different names like is Panadol, Calpol, Dolo-650, Tylenol, PCM, Panadol etc. The pharmacodynamics of synthetic medicines is not known to all. To reduce pain and fever people are consuming Paracetamol (Acetaminophen). Since ancient times, many forest dwellers and the local people of North India (Uttarakhand) are using ethnomedicinal plants to cure various ailments. This study was conducted to document and analyze the importance of the traditional usage of ethnomedicinal plants. Ginger, Lemongrass, black pepper, beetroot, garlic, cinnamon, turmeric, cloves, herbal tea are easily available and can be used as an alternative for Paracetamol. A total of one hundred thirty-seven participants were questioned after getting consent from all participants and all ethical issues were considered. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 21 software. The results show that 71.2% of people agree that too much use of Paracetamol for prolonged periods can damage the liver and other vital organs and 72.3% of people admit that it is important to know the toxicity of overdose of Paracetamol. The study reveals that curative ethnomedicinal plants are better alternatives as they fulfill all the parameters like the presence of antioxidants, antibacterial properties and dissolved alkaloids in them. We need to create more awareness among Gen Z about traditional herbs. This study is based on practical knowledge and application of Science and can be easily implementable.