From Biodiversity to Drug Discovery: Pharmacological Significance and Conservation of Endangered Medicinal Plants

Abstract

Background: Medicinal plants have served as a cornerstone for drug discovery and traditional healthcare systems for centuries. However, a significant proportion of these biologically valuable species are currently threatened due to anthropogenic pressures and ecological changes. Objective: This review aims to critically evaluate pharmacologically important endangered medicinal plants, focusing on their phytochemical composition, therapeutic potential, and conservation challenges. Methods: A comprehensive literature survey was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, covering publications from 2021 to 2026. Studies were selected based on relevance to endangered status, pharmacological validation, and phytochemical characterization. Results: Several endangered plants, including Rauvolfia serpentina, Coscinium fenestratum, Angelica glauca, Chlorophytum borivilianum, and Saussurea costus, exhibit significant pharmacological activities such as antihypertensive, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anticancer effects. These activities are attributed to diverse phytoconstituents including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and glycosides. Conclusion: Endangered medicinal plants represent a valuable yet diminishing resource for drug discovery. Integrating pharmacological research with conservation strategies is essential to ensure sustainable utilization and preservation of these species.