The Nana Phueksa Herbal Garden, also known simply as the Herbal Garden, is an institution under the supervision of the Department of Medical Sciences, Ministry of Public Health. Established in 1943, its primary mission is to conserve, collect, and develop Thailand's medicinal plants to ensure their sustainable use. The garden is located in Moo 2, Ban Suan Saeng Thong, Ang Khiri Subdistrict, Makham District, Chanthaburi Province. With its fertile land ideal for cultivating and propagating medicinal plants, the garden spans over 154 rai (approximately 61 acres), divided into 104 rai for operational activities and 40 rai designated as a conservation forest.

 

This herbal garden houses more than 500 species of medicinal plants, making it one of the most significant hubs for traditional Thai medicine and alternative medicine. The plants grown here are not only preserved for conservation purposes but also serve as valuable resources for research conducted by the Department of Medical Sciences. These studies aim to create new knowledge about the properties and benefits of medicinal plants, as well as to develop standardized, safe herbal medicines and health products. As such, the Nana Phueksa Herbal Garden plays a vital role as both a learning center and a comprehensive database for Thailand's herbal medicine sector.

 

In addition to its conservation and research roles, the garden also serves as a production and distribution center for high-quality medicinal plant seedlings, supporting herbal cultivation across the country. This initiative helps farmers and communities access quality plant varieties, reducing the risk of extinction of native medicinal species while promoting sustainable income generation for those involved in the herbal industry. These propagation efforts also play a key role in restoring biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance within local ecosystems.

 

The 40-rai conservation forest within the garden is preserved as a natural habitat for native flora and fauna. It also acts as an educational resource for learning about natural ecosystems. Visitors can explore the beauty of the area, experience medicinal plants in their natural environment, and gain insight into the growth and development of these plants in the wild. This fosters a deeper appreciation for the importance of conserving natural resources and herbal species for future generations.

 

The preserved and researched plants encompass various groups, such as those used in traditional remedies, Thai traditional medicine, health and wellness practices, and potential commercial products. Notable examples include turmeric, cassumunar ginger, andrographis, tinospora, black ginger, and many rare herbs that are becoming increasingly scarce in the wild. By conserving these plants, the garden helps safeguard traditional knowledge that has been deeply intertwined with Thai cultural heritage, while also paving the way for innovative health-related developments in the future.

 

Moreover, the Nana Phueksa Herbal Garden serves as a knowledge center for the general public, tourists, students, and herbal enthusiasts. Visitors can engage in both theoretical and practical learning experiences, such as demonstrations on cultivation and care techniques, lessons on the safe and correct use of medicinal plants, and exhibitions showcasing the historical and cultural significance of herbs in Thai society through different eras.

 

For wellness tourism, the garden is an attractive destination in Chanthaburi Province. Tourists can stroll through the gardens while listening to guided explanations, enjoying the vibrant array of medicinal plants and the tranquil natural surroundings. It offers a unique opportunity to combine relaxation with learning about traditional Thai health practices using locally sourced herbs.

 

The garden also plays a crucial role in supporting local economic development by promoting standardized commercial herbal cultivation. Through knowledge-sharing and training programs for farmers, the garden helps enhance production quality and supports the creation of herbal products that meet both domestic and international market demands. By ensuring these products meet global standards, consumer confidence is strengthened, leading to increased economic value and sustainable growth.

 

In summary, the Nana Phueksa Herbal Garden is far more than just a conservation site. It is a vital hub for herbal research and development, community income generation, and wellness tourism. With over 500 species of medicinal plants spread across 154 rai, the garden stands as a symbol of Thailand's rich natural heritage and traditional wisdom—one that must be preserved and passed down for generations to come.