Reforestation with Medicinal Plants

Written by Govardhan Team

Around the world, thousands of key compounds derived from plants and animals are used daily to make medicines. 80 % of developing countries rely on traditional medicine for their basic health care and it is estimated that international trade of medicinal plants is a US$60 billion business. Nevertheless, high rates of deforestation are threatening this global industry.

Of the 50,000 known medicinal plants which are the basis of more than 50 % of all medications—up to a fifth are at risk of extinction due to deforestation.

Medicinal plants and herbs have been discovered and used in traditional medicine practices since prehistoric times. Plants synthesis hundreds of chemical compounds for functions including defense against insects, fungi, diseases, and herbivorous mammals.

Medicinal plants need to be at the heart of reforestation because:

their use as nutrition supplements and in the cosmetic and perfume industry is essential.
people value plants more because of their medicinal properties.
people are aware that nature has existential potential.
it can be processed, sold and lead to revenue and investment.
using natural medicine reduces the use of synthetic antibiotics which increases the chance of antibiotic resistance.
it can increase immunity. Research revealed that Tinospora cordifolia leaf powder has significant growth promoting and Immunostimulatory potential in Amur carp raising (Aquatic Animals).
it’s useful for animals too. They are the Mini Clinics of the Animal World, without which Reforestation efforts will not be successful. It will be like a city without a hospital.

Therefore reforestation needs to take into account the value of diverse medical plants. While natural habitats need to be restored, endangered species need to be cultivated to ensure regular supply for human needs as well as to preserve the genetic diversity. Cultivation is an important strategy for conservation and sustainable maintenance of natural stocks, but only a few MAPs are actually cultivated. Lack of knowledge and cultural practises is a constraint {1}. Govardhan App {3} features Indian and soon international medicinal plants and their uses to increase knowledge about traditional medicine, climate action & help discover new treatment drugs.

It’s time we reconnect with nature!

PS: AYUSH 64, a mixture of 4 medicinal plants, can be used as a medicine against mild symptomatic COVID-19 cases & more.

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