Development of an e-Herbarium of Medicinal Plants in Nandurbar District, Maharashtra: Documentation, Conservation, and Digital Repository

This study develops an e-Herbarium to document and conserve medicinal plants in Nandurbar District, Maharashtra. Field surveys identified key species, recorded traditional uses, and authenticated taxonomic details. Herbarium specimens were digitized using high-resolution imaging and database integration. The study highlights indigenous ethnobotanical knowledge, conservation challenges, and the need for sustainable plant use. This research underscores the need for digital transformation in plant conservation efforts, bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and modern scientific approaches. The findings advocate for policy recommendations to safeguard medicinal flora and promote sustainable utilization. The study also opens avenues for future research on the integration of artificial intelligence and geospatial tools in digital herbarium development. Through this initiative, the e-Herbarium serves as a valuable resource for botanists, conservationists, and policymakers, ensuring the preservation and accessibility of medicinal plant knowledge for future generations. The e-Herbarium provides a digital platform for researchers and policymakers, ensuring long-term preservation and accessibility of medicinal plant data.