Foreword

Autoimmunity is defined by the presence of self-reactive immune components, while autoimmune diseases result from the combination of autoimmunity and pathology. Both phenomena are significantly increasing worldwide, likely due to changes in our exposure to environmental factors. Significant changes in our diet, exposure to xenobiotics, air quality, infection rates, personal habits, stress levels, and the effects of climate change are all associated with this increase. These factors have significant consequences not only for the individuals and families affected but also for our society and healthcare expenditures. Projections suggest that autoimmune diseases may soon become the most common medical conditions, underscoring the urgency of addressing these complex health challenges.

Autoimmune diseases represent a family of around 100 disorders that share a common pathogenesis, namely an immune-mediated attack on the body's organs. Although immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory drugs represent the fundamental basis for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, there is currently no known radical treatment for these diseases. The use of medicinal plant extracts or secondary plant substances in herbal remedies is currently being investigated as a possible therapeutic approach for autoimmune diseases. Bringing together many studies on autoimmune diseases and herbal remedies in one book titled "Herbal Medicine for Autoimmune Diseases" with great dedication, this will be an excellent resource for researchers studying this topic.

The editors have strived to highlight the potential effectiveness of herbal treatments for autoimmune diseases, while bringing a broad viewpoint from various disciplines, such as pharmacy, medicine, nutrition, and basic sciences. Also, I would like to compliment the authors of all the chapters and acknowledge their efforts in publishing this comprehensive book.