Methodology

Our Research & Editorial Process

The R.L Education Herbs Database follows rigorous standards to ensure accuracy, reliability, and safety of information.

Content Development Process

1. Source Selection

Each herb profile draws from:

Classical Ayurvedic Texts:

• Charaka Samhita
• Sushruta Samhita
• Ashtanga Hridaya
• Bhavaprakasha Nighantu
• Dravyaguna texts

Modern Scientific Literature:

• PubMed indexed journals
• Clinical trials and systematic reviews
• Pharmacological studies
• Toxicology reports
• Government AYUSH publications

2. Content Creation

• Written by qualified Ayurvedic physicians with BAMS/MD degrees
• Reviewed by senior faculty at Kai. Digambar Bhanudasrao Lolge Ayurveda College
• Fact-checked against multiple authoritative sources
• Language edited for clarity and accessibility

3. Evidence Grading

We use a transparent approach to evidence:

Traditional Evidence:

• Referenced to specific classical texts and chapters
• Noted when usage is widespread in traditional practice
• Distinguished between different schools of Ayurveda where relevant

Scientific Evidence:

• Links to peer-reviewed publications provided
• Clinical trial data noted when available
• Mechanism of action explained when studied
• Gaps in research acknowledged

Safety Data:

• Contraindications from both traditional and modern sources
• Adverse effects documented in literature
• Drug interactions based on pharmacological data
• Pregnancy/lactation safety based on available evidence

Quality Assurance

Editorial Review Board

All content reviewed by:

• Senior Ayurvedic physicians (MD Ayurveda)
• Pharmacology experts
• Clinical practitioners with field experience

Update Schedule

• Quarterly review of all herb profiles
• Immediate updates when new significant research published
• Annual comprehensive review of entire database

Verification Process

1. Primary Sources — Classical texts and original research papers
2. Cross-Reference — Multiple sources confirm each claim
3. Expert Review — Faculty physician approval required
4. Fact-Check — Independent verification of all references
5. Public Feedback — Mechanism for reporting errors

Information Architecture

Each Herb Profile Includes:

Essential Information:

• Common name, Sanskrit name, botanical name
• Family classification
• Traditional Ayurvedic classification (Rasa, Guna, Virya, Vipaka, Prabhava)
• Doshic effects

Clinical Content:

• Evidence-based therapeutic uses
• Traditional applications
• Dosage guidelines (traditional and modern)
• Administration methods
• Duration of treatment

Safety Information:

• Contraindications
• Potential side effects
• Drug interactions (where studied)
• Pregnancy and lactation safety
• Age-specific considerations

Research Section:

• Summary of key scientific findings
• Links to primary sources
• Explanation of active compounds
• Clinical trial results where available

Limitations & Transparency

We openly acknowledge:

• Translation Variations — Sanskrit terms may have multiple interpretations
• Individual Variation — Responses to herbs vary by constitution and condition
• Research Gaps — Many traditional uses lack modern scientific validation
• Evolving Science — New research continually emerges
• Not Medical Advice — This is educational content, not a substitute for professional consultation

Reference Standards

All external references must meet criteria:

Acceptable Sources:

✅ Peer-reviewed scientific journals
✅ Government health databases (AYUSH, WHO, NIH)
✅ Classical Ayurvedic texts (with proper citation)
✅ Academic institutions and research centers
✅ Systematic reviews and meta-analyses

Excluded Sources:

❌ Commercial websites without citations
❌ Blogs and personal opinions
❌ Unverified traditional claims
❌ Sources with conflicts of interest
❌ Outdated research superseded by better studies

Dosage Guidelines

Our dosage recommendations:

• Based on classical Ayurvedic measurements converted to modern units
• Include ranges to account for individual variation
• Note differences between acute and chronic use
• Specify form (powder, decoction, fresh, etc.)
• Emphasize need for professional guidance

Safety-First Approach

Every herb profile includes:

1. Medical Disclaimer — Clear statement this is not medical advice
2. Contraindications — When NOT to use the herb
3. Professional Guidance — When to consult a practitioner
4. Interaction Warnings — Potential medication interactions
5. Monitoring Advice — What to watch for during use

Continuous Improvement

We welcome feedback to improve this resource:

• Report Errors: herbs@rleducation.org
• Suggest Updates: Include citations for new research
• Request Additions: Propose herbs for future inclusion
• Ask Questions: Clarifications on methodology

Academic Integrity

This database maintains:

• No commercial affiliations or bias
• No promotion of specific brands
• Objective presentation of evidence
• Transparency about limitations
• Regular updates based on new evidence

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Our Commitment

We are committed to providing accurate, balanced, evidence-based information about Ayurvedic herbs while respecting both traditional wisdom and modern science. This resource serves education, not commerce, and prioritizes safety and honesty above all.

For questions about our methodology: herbs@rleducation.org