How Pests Influence the Growth and Potency of Medicinal Plants

Medicinal plants play a crucial role in both conventional and modern healthcare systems, with an estimated 80% of the global population relying on them for primary medical treatment. However, these plants face significant challenges from various deleterious organisms, including insects, bacteria, fungi, and nematodes, which threaten their growth, yield, and phytochemical quality. These pests not only cause physical damage but also elicit complex defense mechanisms in plants, potentially altering their bioactive compound profiles. This investigation examines the effects of herbivorous insects, pathogens, and nematodes on medicinal plants, focusing on their impact on plant physiology and chemical composition. Effective pest management is essential to maintain the sustainability and therapeutic efficacy of medicinal plants. Elucidating these plant-pest interactions is crucial for developing strategies that preserve plant health and optimize their medicinal properties.

How Pests Influence the Growth and Potency of Medicinal Plants Keywords:

Medicinal plants , Phytochemical quality , Herbivorous insects , Pathogens , Plant defense