Biodiversity loss and its impacts on rural health/ alternate systems of medicine

Abstract

There is possibly no single argument, which by itself provides sufficient grounds for attempting to maintain all existing biological diversity. A more general and pragmatic approach, however, recognizes that different but equally valid arguments - viz., resource values, precautionary values, ethics and aesthetics, and simple self-interest - apply in different cases, and between them provide an overwhelmingly powerful and convincing case for the conservation of biological diversity. Excessive collection and exploitation has depleted the present wealth and over 25 medicinal plant species have been threatened to extinction. India exhibits remarkable outlook in modern medicine that is based on natural products besides traditional system of Indian medicine. Apart from being used in traditional medicines, medicinal plants play an important role as trade commodities, meeting the demand of distant markets. This paper begins with biological diversity, its levels, and importance, followed by biodiversity at the national level, and the use of medicinal plants in traditional medicines. It also touches upon the aspects of tribal pharmacopea and export potential of medicinal plants. Finally, it stresses upon the dangers of extinction due to overexploitation and the urgent need to save biodiversity.