Introduced medicinal (aromatic) plant diversity enhancement and research value to human lifestyle in Lithuania

Abstract

According to the global strategy for plant conservation adopted by the Convention on Biological Diversity the issue of enrichment of biological and medicinal (aromatic) plant diversity and their rational consumption for healthy lifestyle optimization is being debated. In recent years a lot of attention has been paid towards growing of medicinal (aromatic) plants, creation of medicinal and aromatic gardens, and professional usage of raw material. In seeking for the harmony of nature and human activity, introduction, researching and rational usage of medicinal plants receives a new quality. A new scientific activity promoted the development of medicinal plant farming in rural areas, where United Nations Development Programme Global Environment Facility Small projects were carried on: Growing and Protection of Rare and Medicinal Plants in Babrungas, as an example of medicinal plant farming; A Farm of Medicinal Plants in Panara, as an example of environmentally friendly farming in Dzukija National park. The collections of medicinal plants, which are managed there, have cognitive-practical and scientific-educational value. Introduction methodology and technology is applied in the research. Object of the research perspective medicinal (aromatic) plants adapted to growing in Lithuanian climate conditions. Aim of the research the introduction of plants and selection of viable farming and restocking diversity, the creation of green spaces and revealing medicinal, spice (aromatic) plant diversity collections, cognitive importance of public education activities, personal natural sciences competences, respect to human health, operational safety and environmental interaction.