How to Save Wild Medicinal and Culinary Herbs - from a South african Perspective

As the need for alternative medicinal resources increases the over exploitation of wild herbs is becoming a serious problem. Many herbs have been taken to near extinction in the wild. Protecting herbs from over-exploitation needs co-operation from ecologists, plant breeders, health professionals and traditional healers as well as governmental policy makers. Many herbs are protected under the following categories: rare, vulnerable, endangered and extinct. Collecting from the wild certainly has an impact on the ecosystem if the harvested plants fall under the endangered and extinct heading.

Herbs with a slow growing rate and or a low reproduction rate, naturally having few leaves and flowers and endemic species with localized distribution are always at risk of becoming extinct. Picking the whole plant or in the case of trees cutting them down also plays a large role in over-exploitation. Bark stripping and sap milking if not controlled has an enormous impact on trees especially in rainforest areas.

Protecting herbs and plant life starts with the individual, and common sense is always required. Do not pick or uproot protected species. In some countries it is illegal to harvest any wild plants without the landowners permission. Do not transport plants and seeds across country boarders whether they are legal or illegal quarantine regulations are in place in many countries to prevent the spread of pests, diseases and weed (a herb in one country may be considered as a weed in another and may upset the natural balance).

About the Author

http://www.turtleherbestate.co.za where you will find Global solutions and ideas. Turtle Herb Estate Holdings consists of 3 forward thinking entrepreneurs with expertise in marketing & DTP advertising, farming culinary and medicinal herbs, web design and online marketing, horse breeding (sport horses),animal health products, import and export, engineering and industrial design (water solutions), arts and crafts. With a combine

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What is herbal medicine?

An approach to healing which uses plant or plant-derived preparations to treat, prevent, or cure various health conditions and ailments. This approach is incorporated into various medical systems. Although herbal medicine does not have a specific point of conception, at present an estimated 80% of the world’s population rely on medicinal plant preparations for their primary healthcare needs, according to the World Health Organization. ...
Herbal medicine involves the use of any or all of the different parts of plants (roots, leaves, stems and seeds) to treat illnesses and maintain health. Medicines are given to improve the body’s natural functions and to restore a natural balance of health. Herbal medicines can be given in many forms, such as liquids, infusions, tablets, creams and ointments.
Herbs are used in both Eastern and Western medicine. The aim is to use all parts of the herb and particular emphasis is laid on the energetic content of the herbs and its ability to stimulate healing. Thus the method of picking the herb and the time of day can affect the potency. The whole herb has a wider healing potential than the single active agent used by the pharmaceutical industry.