Medicinal plant cultivation and biosphere reserve management: a case study from the Nanda Devi biosphere reserve, Himalaya.

摘要

The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR), Uttar Pradesh, India, is rich in bioresources, and has diverse ecological conditions and a long practice of traditional farming systems. The area produces plant-based raw materials used locally, regionally orsupplied (legally and illegally) to the pharmaceutical industry. Over-exploitation of plant species has led to their decline. The flora of the area comprises 341 tree species, 552 species of herbs and shrubs and 18 grasses; of these 97 species are usedfor a variety of purposes. Twelve species are rare, and 6 are endangered. Cultivation of medicinal, aromatic, spice and condiment plants in NDBR is presented and discussed, with reference to cultural practices, area under cultivation, yields and marketing. Conservation issues are discussed.