crude drug

A crude drug is a plant or animal substance, in its natural state or ground, used for medicinal purposes. The use of such substances dates back to ancient civilizations, including the Chinese, Hindu, and Mediterranean cultures, who documented medicinal preparations from plants, animals, and minerals.12

Pharmaceuticals are substances used to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease, and to modify bodily functions. While ancient physicians like Galen used various drugs, the practice of pharmacy began to develop rapidly in the 16th century. Early modern pharmaceuticals included anesthetics like morphine and ether, and substances isolated in the 19th century such as quinine and nicotine. Today, pharmaceuticals are classified by their chemical group, pharmacological effect, or therapeutic use, and can be derived from natural sources or synthesized in laboratories.3