The Relationship Between Medicinal Plants and Food Industries: A Review Article

Qasim, Munaf A.; Essa, A. H.; Khashan, Bilal A.

doi:10.32894/MEDIP.25.3.3.7

	The Relationship Between Medicinal Plants and Food Industries: A Review Article
Journal of Medicinal and Industrial Plant Sciences
Volume 3, Issue 3, September 2025, Pages 75-101 PDF (520.87 K)
Document Type: Article Review
DOI: 10.32894/MEDIP.25.3.3.7
Authors
Munaf A. Qasim^* ; A. H. Essa; Bilal A. Khashan
Department of Food Sciences, Agriculture College, University of Anbar, Anbar, Iraq.
Abstract
Medicinal plants have played a vital role in human health and nutrition since ancient times, laying the groundwork for pharmacology and dietary practices. Historical figures such as Theophrastus and Linnaeus classified numerous therapeutic herbs, many of which have contributed to modern medicines. Today, herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables are valued for their nutritional and therapeutic properties. This evolving “pharm-nutrition” approach emphasizes bioactive phytochemicals that bridge food and medicine. Plant extracts now serve as natural preservatives, flavor enhancers, and alternatives to synthetic additives. Regulatory frameworks vary: in the U.S., botanicals in dietary supplements are regulated as food under DSHEA without FDA pre-approval, while in the EU, traditional herbal products must meet pharmacopeia and WHO standards. The global dietary supplement market is expanding rapidly, projected to reach $300 billion by 2028, reflecting rising demand for natural health products. However, this growth raises sustainability concerns, with over 15,000 of the 80,000 medicinal plant species globally endangered due to overharvesting. Conservation efforts emphasize cultivation and biotechnological solutions such as tissue culture and synthetic seeds. Herbal components are increasingly incorporated into modern diets and nutraceuticals for their bioactive benefits. Scientific studies have isolated active compounds and validated their antibacterial, antioxidant, and therapeutic effects. While some herbs are clinically studied, many traditional remedies remain under-researched. Global research trends now focus more on drug discovery and functional bioactives than agronomic studies. Future directions include applying genomics, metabolomics, and digital traceability to ensure safety, efficacy, and sustainable use of medicinal plants within integrated food–pharma strategies.
Highlights

Keywords
Phytochemicals; Nutraceuticals; Botanical Supplements; Medicinal Plant Conservation; Pharm-nutrition

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