ETHNOBOTANY AND AYURVEDA IN THE GLOBAL WELLNESS INDUSTRY: FROM FOREST TO FORMULA
Main Article Content
Keywords
Ethnobotany, Ayurveda, Cosmeceuticals, Nutraceuticals, Herbal Medicine, Functional Skincare, Global Wellness Industry, Traditional Knowledge, Bio-prospecting, Phytotherapy
Abstract
The integration of ethnobotany and Ayurveda is creating a transformative paradigm in the global wellness industry. This paper presents a critical analysis of how indigenous botanical knowledge, particularly from the Indian Ayurvedic tradition, is being adapted for the development of cosmeceuticals, nutraceuticals, and functional skincare. The progression of plant-derived solutions from their natural habitat to commercial formulations involves complex processes, including bioprospecting, phytochemical analysis, formulation science, and regulatory compliance. Innovations in biotechnology and artificial intelligence are accelerating this transition while maintaining sustainability and cultural authenticity. As consumers globally pivot toward holistic, clean-label, and plant-based wellness solutions, Ayurveda provides a structured, time-tested framework for therapeutic and cosmetic interventions. This paper explores scientific validations of Ayurvedic herbs, product development pipelines, global market trends, and policy implications, offering a roadmap for ethical commercialization that benefits both consumers and traditional knowledge holders.
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