XVI International Botanical Congess

The diversity of physiography caused by altitudinal variations and climatic fluctuations has greatly contributed towards the rich distribution of vegetation in different areas of Nepal which adequately represent floras of tropical to alpine zones. Up to now, more than 700 species of herbal medicinal, out of an expected 7000 higher plant species, have been reported from Nepal. The studies indicate that the temperate zone consists of the highest number of medicinal plant species followed by tropical & subtropical zones (31%) and Alpine zone (14%). High value products are found to be from the high altitudes and low value products from the lower altitudes. Therefore, in high altitudes (more than 2000 m), over-exploitation of forest is common. Among high value produce, Swertia chirata (Common name: Chiraita) has been found to be most important. About 45% of Chiraita in Himalayan region are produced from the hills of Nepal. Nepal exports about 361 t of medicinal and aromatic plants (1986-87 data) having government revenue of about US$ 100,000. Most of medicinal plants (627 t) are exported to Europe worth of about US$11,290,000 (1991). Aspects of trade of medicinal plants are also described in this paper. Finally, the future conservation strategies of medicinal plants are also discussed.