The Bulgarian nature – a valuable source of medicinal plants, protected by law

Every year on June 24, Bulgaria celebrates Enyvden - the holiday associated with the centuries-old traditions of honoring the healing power of nature. The country is distinguished by its exceptional biodiversity, with over 4300 species of higher plants in its flora, of which about 770 are medicinal. From these 200 species, over 270 herbs are obtained, used in the food, pharmaceutical, perfume and cosmetic industries.

In order to preserve this valuable natural wealth, Bulgaria is the only country in the European Union with a separate Law on Medicinal Plants (ZLR), in force since 2000. The law defines the institutions responsible for the sustainable use of medicinal plants - the regional authorities of the ministries of environment and water and of agriculture and food. They register and control the points for the purchase and preparation of herbs, and issue permits for commercial collection.

Every year, the Minister of Environment and Water issues an order, which determines 24 species of medicinal plants prohibited for commercial collection, and 11 species with permissible quantities for picking. Among them are red peony, medicinal primrose, woodruff, and medicinal comfrey, among others. 61 protected species of medicinal plants, whose collection, uprooting and sale are prohibited, also have a special status.

Despite the legal protection, the majority of herbs purchased and processed in the country are obtained from the wild nature. However, the resource is not inexhaustible, so specialists call for careful use and cultivation of medicinal plants. The local population also plays an important role in preserving the natural habitats, as they should inform the control authorities in case of violations.

More information on medicinal plants in Bulgaria can be found on the website of the Ministry of Environment and Water.