In situ and ex situ conservation of medicinal plants: A critical review of current approaches

Abstract

Background: Medicinal plants are indispensable to global health care, cultural heritage and pharmaceutical innovation, yet their survival is increasingly threatened by habitat destruction, overharvesting and climate change. Aim: This review critically examines both in situ and ex situ conservation strategies, highlighting their principles, applications, limitations and complementarities. Setting: In situ methods preserve evolutionary and ecological dynamics within natural habitats, while ex situ approaches provide genetic safeguarding and research opportunities through seed banks, botanical gardens, tissue culture and cryopreservation. Method: This review integrates peer-reviewed literature, institutional reports, case studies and expert observations from 2000 to 2024. Results: Case studies from Asia and Africa illustrate successful conservation models integrating local knowledge and community participation. However, each method faces significant challenges, including land-use conflict, technical limitations, loss of genetic diversity and weak enforcement. Conclusion: The review argues for integrated conservation frameworks that synergise both approaches and leverage modern tools such as genomic technologies, geographic information system and DNA barcoding. Contribution: It underscores the urgency of policy reform, capacity building, sustainable funding and equitable benefit sharing to ensure the long-term survival and sustainable use of medicinal plant resources.