Sustainable cultivation of phytopharmaceuticals in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany: a SWOT analysis and future directions

Objectives
The aim of this systematic work is a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) analysis to select suitable medicinal plants for cultivation in the region of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany.

Methods
A systematic SWOT analysis, based on expert assesments and literature research, was performed considering factors like market demand, cultivation conditions, and potential economic benefits.

Results
Medicinal plants have been essential for producing compounds with significant health benefits. However, unsuitable harvesting practices threaten plant species and traditional communities due to loss of knowledge and culture. In response, sustainable cultivation is gaining attention as alternative to wild collection, ensuring both biodiversity conversation and integrity of medicinal products. Three plants – Arnica montana L., Hydrastis canadensis L., and Rheum rhaponticum L. – were identified as particularly suitable due to their high demand and feasibility of their cultivation under local conditions. Conversely, six other plants were deemed less viable due to various challenges, including market competition and harvesting difficulties.
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Conclusions
This publication emphasizes the importance of comprehensive planning and analysis in transitioning from wild collection to sustainable cultivation of medicinal plants, highlighting the potential benefits for regional agriculture, conservation efforts, and the pharmaceutical industry. BIOPRO Baden-Württemberg GmbH promotes this approach by fostering a bioeconomy centred on cultivating high-value medicinal plants in the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany.