Quality, the denominator of any object for its acceptance is the prime issue in present scenario. It is also applicable for the drugs of different origin mentioned in Ayurveda. Ayurvedic science has developed in a cultural milieu and through a methodology that is based on a subjective approach to standardization. After scrutinizing the classics, it can be said that the ancient seers were well familiar with the concepts of quality control of the drugs, which helps in maintaining positive health and eradicating diseases, while the contemporary system learnt about the significance, in recent times only. WHO too starts to think about implementation of quality control aspects for herbal drugs in recent past. This paper reflects some light on the important subjective quality control parameters mentioned in classics along with some advanced analytical and phytochemical investigations for the quality control, along with suitable examples based on recent studies. Attempt has also been made to compile the scattered references pertaining to quality control from the ancient classics along with justification at few instances. The whole paper tries to reflect a need of collaborative approach between ayurvedic and modern sciences for better understanding and to create relevant quality standards.

Key words Ayurvedic medicines, commercialization, quality control, raw material, finished products.