Medicinal plants matter on World Wildlife Day.

Ahead of World Wildlife Day on 3 March, IUCN specialists highlighted the importance of medicinal and aromatic plants for ecosystems, medicines and livelihoods, and reported that many species face threats from habitat loss, unsustainable harvesting and climate change.

World Wildlife Day on 3 March this year focuses on medicinal and aromatic plants. IUCN specialists and the Medicinal Plant Specialist Group have been discussing why these species matter for ecosystems, health and livelihoods. Danna J. Leaman, the group's outgoing co-chair, noted a broader shift in conservation attention from animals alone to include plants. Experts and institutions such as the Royal Botanic Gardens have compiled global databases to document species and uses. Key facts: - Around 30,000 plant species are widely recognised as medicinal or aromatic based on published evidence and trade data. - The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) is increasingly recognising that many species involved in international trade are plants. - Threats identified in recent assessments include agricultural expansion, land-use change and unsustainable harvesting of wild plant populations. - Climate change is reported as an increasing risk, especially for species in vulnerable habitats such as wetlands and mountain ecosystems. - The Himalayan herb nardostachys jatamansi (spikenard) is listed as critically endangered; its aromatic roots are harvested and trade restrictions in Nepal now aim to protect wild plants. - Ms. Leaman said demonstrating sustainable harvesting practices may balance conservation goals with local economic needs. Summary: Medicinal and aromatic plants are central to both traditional uses and modern industries, and they are increasingly part of international conservation and trade discussions. Conservation measures such as trade restrictions and sustainable-harvesting initiatives are already in use for some species; the overall outlook and longer-term outcomes are undetermined at this time.