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As mankind makes deeper incursions into uncharted territory, it risks endangering many forms of species of flora and fauna which possibly can add significantly to improve our lives. It has been known for many years that some indigenous societies who have not been adulterated by "civilisation" have survived for years on their knowledge of what plants, shrubs and trees can do to cure the human body. Many of these plants have yet to be thoroughly examined and exploited and are more than likely to disappear before science has had a chance to examine their efficacy in treatment.
Scientists believe there are yet to be discovered countless varieties of species that by contributing to medicinal cures can help humans and animals. Yet as no complete study has been undertaken, or even research, a danger exists that action will be taken only once it is too late to save the plants from extinction. The United Nations Environment Programme calculates that at present there are over 16,000 species on the point of disappearing from the planet due to man's callous disregard for the environment. But that number does not include the undiscovered species that are known only to tribes isolated from other humanity.
While the scientific and medical communities rely heavily on the production of man-made drugs, there is still a need for further development of natural drugs many of which have been around for years. Acetylsalicylic acid, more commonly known by the brand name Aspirin, and quinine are good examples of drugs that have been proven to be beneficial to society, and both are derived from natural products.
If mankind is to ignore the warning of losing out on the potential of drugs from natural products, then there is a danger of losing the possibility of producing as yet unknown cures for all sorts of illnesses.
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