Medicinal plants belong to the valuable wealth of indigenous flora in the cross-border region of Greece-Albania, which are hitherto untapped. The variety of climate and geomorphology of the region allows the development of large and rare varieties of plants, which may even be grown easily if there is interest and a network of marketing. The traditional, medicinal use of these plants is known in the region and dates back to ancient times, from the time of Dioscorides (100 BC), who was the first to record the collection, drying, storage and use of many medicinal plants (herbs), such as hypericum, sage, tea, salvia, etc. These herbs are appropriate for mild forms of disease such as cold, cough, ulcer etc. The traditional use and registration of these plants is a legacy for future systematic exploitation. Unfortunately, so far, the local herbs in the cross-border zone of Epirus-South Albania have not received any systematic study, exploitation and management. Nowadays, more than ever, the use of these plants as ingredients in health products and nutrition has been essential due to the shift of the modern consumers to natural, herbal products for the well-being.
The proposed project, HERBINNO, intends to promote the exploitation and management of local medicinal plants in a modern, international consumer environment. The aim of the project is the certification of active ingredients and bioactive properties of plants and the proposed commercial use to obtain sustainable development initiatives and to progress the use of this invaluable, local, natural wealth. It intends to further this process by training new producers/cultivators and then linking them to herbal companies in order to promote contract farming and increase the economic activity in the field.
Furthermore the project aims to highlight the cultural and traditional value of medicinal herbs for their exploitation in the touristic industry.
The objectives of the project will be accomplished through the main following actions:
