Towards sustainable harvests of natural medicines. Validated RNRRS Output.
Abstract
This is one of 280 summaries describing key outputs from the projects run by DFID's 10-year Renewable Natural Resources Research Strategy (RNRRS) programmes.
Summary for Project title: R8305: Developing biometric sampling systems and optimal harvesting methods for medicinal tree bark in southern Africa.
Three new books have sparked moves to balance competing demands on threatened forests in southern Africa. One in three people in developing countries use traditional medicines, especially the very poor. But, because gatherers collect tree bark and other natural medicines from communal or state-owned forests, supplies are threatened. The new books suggest sustainable ways of harvesting bark for traditional medicine from forests and woodlands, commercialising medicinal plants and taking stock of non-timber products from forests. Together, the three books offer vital information for preparing forest management plans—including community management. Already, many different stakeholder groups, from traditional healers to senior forestry officials use the books. This is a positive step towards collaboration to sustain forest resources in southern Africa.
The CD has the following information for this output: Description, Validation, Current Situation, Current Promotion, Impacts On Poverty, Environmental Impact. Attached PDF (16 pp.) taken from the CD.
Citation
FRP39, New technologies, new processes, new policies: tried-and-tested and ready-to-use results from DFID-funded research, Research Into Use Programme, Aylesford, Kent, UK, ISBN 978-0-9552595-6-2, p 104.