Economic Value of Herbal Medicine Practitioners in Jharkhand’s Rural Economy

Abstract

The informal sector and rural health care systems in India's tribally populated regions rely heavily on herbal medicine practitioners. In this study, using secondary sources, we look at how herbal medicine practitioners in rural Jharkhand contribute financially to the community. This study built on prior empirical research on medicinal plants, indigenous knowledge systems, and forestbased livelihoods as well as scholarly journal articles, books, and reports. According to the findings, herbalists may help fill a critical need in rural areas without access to modern medical treatment, such as tribal and outlying areas. Collecting, preparing, and selling medicinal plants and non-timber forest products also helps them generate livelihoods. Herbal medicinal techniques also provide credence to the preservation of traditional knowledge and the responsible use of forest resources. However, factors such as inadequate institutional recognition, diminished transfer of traditional knowledge, restricted market access, and environmental degradation hinder their full potential from being achieved. The research found that rural livelihoods in Jharkhand may be improved by policy support and sustainable resource management for developing herbal medicine systems. This, in turn, can promote inclusive rural development.