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Plant Science Today (PST)

Review Articles

Vol. 13 No. sp5 (2026): Recent Advances in Agriculture

Agroforestry system: Enhancing agricultural diversification through cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants and soil health improvement in the tropical zones

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.12060
Submitted
30 September 2025
Published
14-07-2026

Abstract

Medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) are central to the health, culture and economies of societies worldwide. In tropical regions, particularly the Indian subcontinent, integrating MAPs into agroforestry systems offers a sustainable pathway for agricultural diversification, rural income generation and ecosystem restoration. This review consolidates global and regional evidence on the ecological, economic and social benefits of MAP-based agroforestry, assessing MAP roles in conventional and modern systems, their contributions to soil health and challenges and opportunities for conservation and commercial cultivation. We emphasise research needs in species compatibility, value chains and policy support to maximise MAP potential in agroforestry for sustainable development.

 

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