Conservation and Sustainable Management of Wild Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Species

Abstract

Aromatic and medicinal plants are considered to be key sources of novel medicines and pharmaceuticals all around the world. Only 20% of people in industrialized countries derive their medicine directly from plants, whereas 80% of people in developing countries rely solely on herbal medicines. The use of aromatic and medicinal plants, along with their bioactive compounds, is quickly spreading around the world, as the desire for natural health products is growing. Indigenous vegetation is being threatened by the indiscriminate gathering and overexploitation of medicinal and aromatic plants in the wild. It is critical to protect these species and encourage the long-term usage of aromatic and medicinal plant species in the future.