Traditional use of medicinal plants and its biodiversity in India

Abstract

Population explosion in certain parts of the world, especially in the developing countries like India, has led to a continuous effort towards development. In India, the dominant health care system is based on allopathic medicine and Traditional medicine is often termed 'complementary' or 'alternative' or 'non-conventional' medicine. The concept of 'Medicinal Plants, Health and Environment' considers the dynamic interaction between humans and ecosystems for the health and well-being of human populations. Ethnobotanical studies focusing on folk medicine and medicinal plants can contribute to the field of eco-cultural health if they incorporate the perspective and local knowledge of communities. The links between Traditional medicine and biodiversity are exemplified by a long tradition of healing powers associated with the earth's natural systems, whether this entails medicinal plants and animal species, the ambient salubrious air, spring water or the natural scenery. The interconnections between folk medicine and the biotic environments may be seen in the health benefits derived from the existence of a full complement of species, intact watersheds, climate regulation and genetic diversity, as well as through our fundamental needs for food, water, clean air, shelter and relative climatic constancy. This review summarizes scientific findings and suggests areas where further research is needed.