Herbal medicine research. Samples of Indian medicinal herbs awaiting scientific analysis. Many types of woody bark (such as sandalwood) are seen on trays (at lower frame). The jars (at upper frame) contain other herbs and spices. These herbal ingredients are being analysed by an Indian pharmaceutical company to find their active qualities. Traditional Indian herbal medicine (known as Ayurvedism) uses the extracts of many plants as medication. These extracts take the form of herbal oils, preparations and tonics which are prescribed by Ayurvedic doctors and pharmacists. Photographed in Bombay, India.