Herbal medicines have been utilized for centuries, offering therapeutic benefits derived from natural plant sources. This paper explores the pharmacognosy and pharmacology of herbal medicines, emphasizing their mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. It highlights the historical perspectives, key figures, and evolution of herbal practices, alongside the scientific methods used to study and standardize medicinal plants. The paper also addresses challenges such as variability in plant composition, quality control issues, safety concerns, and regulatory hurdles