Medicinal forest herbs: conservation and economic development in the Appalachian Mountains
Medicinal forest herbs: conservation and economic development in the Appalachian Mountains
Author(s): Christine SmallSubject(s): Language and Literature Studies, National Economy, Health and medicine and law, Economic development, Philology, Socio-Economic Research
Published by: Editura Universitatii Transilvania din Brasov
Keywords: forest farming; herbal economy; non-timber forest products; wild harvesting;
Summary/Abstract: The medicinal plant industry, and the people of Appalachia, have relied on the rich natural resources of the Appalachian Mountains for centuries, collecting plants for food, medicine, and livelihood. By the 1700s, Appalachia had become a major supplier of medicinal plants and was recognized internationally as a source of American ginseng. Today, the value of these products is substantial, with more than $11 billion in 2020 U.S. sales. There is a growing concern, however, that many medicinal herbs are disappearing. We review current research on wild harvesting, forest cultivation, and efforts to create markets for sustainably sourced Appalachian medicinal herbs. There is a critical need for ecologically sound management and sustainable economies in Appalachia, to support our natural resources and communities.
Journal: Bulletin of the Transilvania University of Braşov, Series IV: Philology & Cultural Studies
- Issue Year: 15/2023
- Issue No: Suppl
- Page Range: 35-48
- Page Count: 14
- Language: English
