Open AccessMolecules from nature: Reconciling biodiversity conservation and global healthcare imperatives for sustainable use of medicinal plants and fungi
Author(s) -
Howes MelanieJayne R.,
Quave Cassandra L.,
Collemare Jérôme,
Tatsis Evangelos C.,
Twilley Danielle,
Lulekal Ermias,
Farlow Andrew,
Li Liping,
Cazar MaríaElena,
Leaman Danna J.,
Prescott Thomas A. K.,
Milliken William,
Martin Cathie,
De Canha Marco Nuno,
Lall Namrita,
Qin Haining,
Walker Barnaby E.,
VásquezLondoño Carlos,
Allkin Bob,
Rivers Malin,
Simmonds Monique S. J.,
Bell Elizabeth,
Battison Alex,
Felix Juri,
Forest Felix,
Leon Christine,
Williams China,
Nic Lughadha Eimear
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
plants, people, planet
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2572-2611
DOI - 10.1002/ppp3.10138
Subject(s) - threatened species , business , biodiversity , health care , environmental planning , global health , natural resource economics , environmental resource management , biology , geography , economic growth , ecology , economics , habitat
Plants and fungi have provided, or inspired, key pharmaceuticals for global health challenges, including cancer, heart disease, dementia, and malaria, and are valued as traditional medicines worldwide. Global demand for medicinal plants and fungi has threatened certain species, contributing to biodiversity loss and depletion of natural resources that are important for the health of humanity. We consider the evolving role of plants and fungi in global healthcare as new challenges to human health and to biodiversity arise. We present current and emerging scientific approaches, to uncover and preserve nature‐based health solutions for the future, through harmonization with biodiversity conservation strategies.