Medicinal herbs cultivation to ensure a sustainable supply of quality raw herbal drugs: A review

Abstract

Geographical Indications (GIs) are closely associated with product quality, as the agroecological conditions of a region impart unique characteristics to agricultural commodities. These distinctive quality traits facilitate the filing and registration of GI products. India, being one of the world’s mega-biodiversity regions, possesses a rich diversity of medicinal plants. However, the increasing demand for herbal medicines has led to destructive harvesting practices, threatening the natural populations of these valuable species. Therefore, the protection and promotion of GIs can play a significant role in branding and marketing region-specific products, thereby enhancing the economic prosperity of local producers and manufacturers. In addition to supporting regional economic development, GI registration also strengthens export potential. Among the GI-tagged horticultural commodities, spices, medicinal, and aromatic crops together constitute less than 25% of the total share. Although GI registration in the horticulture sector has progressed considerably over the years, medicinal and aromatic crops still possess very few GI tags, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness, documentation, and registration efforts in this sector.