Background: Owing to its extraordinary biodiversity and distinct climate conditions, Lorestan is one of the most important habitats of medicinal plants in Iran. Up to the present, more than 1700 species of plants have been recorded in the province. It is worth noting, however, that the weak protection of natural habitats and the lack of sustained commercial sustainable policies, combined with the absence of modern industries for processing and packaging, developed marketing strategies, and targeted exporting, have all largely contributed to Lorestan province’s underwhelming contribution to the national and international markets for medicinal plants. This policy brief under review considers the value chain of medicinal plants in Lorestan-from sustainable growing and conservation, to processing, branding, and export-as the most important avenue for fostering sustainable work opportunities, foreign revenue, resource conservation, and improving the province’s image. Not only should all these goals be achieved, however, but the province’s policymakers should take the lead using a targeted and collaborative strategy that balances investment in processing industries, farmer support, and regional branding and marketing. Only then, will Lorestan’s position as a leading center for medicinal plants in Iran and beyond be realized.
Type of Study:
Original Research |
Received: 2025/09/26 | Accepted: 2025/10/16 | Published: 2025/11/1