The Economic Impact of Medicinal Plants on Health Systems in Developing Countries

Mwende Wairimu G.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

The use of medicinal plants plays a crucial role in the healthcare systems of developing countries, particularly in rural areas where access to conventional medicine is limited. This paper examines the economic impact of medicinal plants on health systems, focusing on their contribution to reducing healthcare costs, generating income, and sustaining biodiversity. It explores the historical and cultural significance of traditional medicine, the biodiversity of medicinal plants, market trends, and their integration into national health policies. The study highlights challenges such as regulatory barriers, intellectual property rights, and sustainability concerns while showcasing successful case studies from countries that have effectively incorporated medicinal plants into their healthcare frameworks. The findings emphasize the need for strategic policies, investment in research, and collaboration between traditional and modern medical systems to maximize the economic and health benefits of medicinal plants in developing nations.

Keywords: Medicinal plants, traditional medicine, economic impact, healthcare system, biodiversity, sustainability.

CITE AS: Mwende Wairimu G. (2025). The Economic Impact of Medicinal Plants on Health Systems in Developing Countries. NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND PHARMACY, 6(2):50-56. https://doi.org/10.59298/NIJPP/2025/625056