Métabolismes secondaires des plantes : Spécialité Biodiversité et physiologie végétale Master Ι

Abstract

Herbal medicine is an ancient medical discipline. It has been used all over the world. But it is also a modern form of medicine. This traditional medicine, based on the use of medicinal plants to treat numerous illnesses, continues to be used, and in recent years its popularity has only increased. Traditional medicine practices vary greatly from country to country and region to region. They are influenced by well-known factors: culture, history, and personal philosophies. Natural products are of great interest as raw materials for various sectors, such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food processing, plant protection, and industry. Thus, the use of herbal remedies has recently experienced unprecedented enthusiasm. More and more people are looking for "natural" medicines, and it would seem that plant-based cosmetics and cleaning products are increasingly being used today. According to the WHO, nearly 80% of the population in developing countries in the African region uses traditional medicine (WHO, 2000).