Diversity of Artemisia in the Himalayan States in response to ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and biological activities: A review

Abstract

The Indian Himalayan region has been recognized as one of the best habitats for medicinal plants.
Around 400 species of medicinal plant Artemisia are distributed throughout temperate regions of
the world. These species are used as traditional medicines by indigenous cultures and many show
biological activities including antimalarial, cytotoxic, antihepatotoxic, antibacterial, antifungal
and antioxidant activities. The present study highlights the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry
and biological activities of different eleven species of Artemisia along various Himalayan States.
This study recommends that it is an urgent need to implement appropriate strategies for the
conservation and management of different valuable species of Artemisia in these Himalayan
states for the purpose of enhancement of livelihood security, alternative employment
opportunities and sustainable development.