Abstract

Dr. Kiran Bahuguna* and Dr. Harleen Kaur Sethi

ABSTRACT

The Earth is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal species, many of which have provided invaluable contributions to human health and well-being for centuries. However, the rampant destruction of natural habitats, overexploitation, and climate change have pushed numerous species to the brink of extinction. Medicinal species, which possess unique chemical compounds that hold tremendous potential for the development of life-saving drugs, are at great risk. The advantages of good outcomes, few or no side effects, and accessibility to the general population have led to widespread acceptance and adoption of a broad variety of medicinal plants in India, which are predominantly used by locals for health care. Indigenous and traditional medical practices have demonstrated efficacy (direct or indirect as immune-boosters) against numerous dreaded illnesses, including the most recent worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. There is alarm across the globe as the bulk of these plants, which were harvested from natural stands, are also in danger of going extinct due to predictions of the sixth mass extinction. In this article, we will explore the importance of endangered medicinal species, the factors threatening their survival, and the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these valuable resources.