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The Health Benefits of Alpine Plant Resources: An Integrated Study of Ecological Adaptation and Public Health Promotion

Author(s)

Xiaolu Ji

Affiliation(s)

College of Physical Education, Qinghai Normal University, Xining, Qinghai, China

Abstract

The extreme environment of plateau regions has shaped unique ecological adaptations in plants, which respond to environmental stress through morphological adjustments, physiological and metabolic remodeling, and the synthesis of specific bioactive compounds. These characteristics hold significant value for human health; however, integrated research on ecological adaptation and health benefits remains insufficient. This study integrates multidisciplinary approaches from plant ecology, pharmacology and public health to elucidate the mechanisms linking the ecological adaptation of plateau plants to their health benefits, thereby providing support for resource utilization and the promotion of public health. To adapt to environments characterized by low oxygen and low atmospheric pressure, high-altitude plants enhance glycolysis, accumulate polyols, and induce the synthesis of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, polysaccharides and alkaloids. These plants can effectively combat hypoxia and fatigue, regulate three highs (high blood pressure, high blood sugar and high cholesterol), and contribute to improving public health by boosting immunity and providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. They demonstrate significant potential, particularly in the prevention of high-altitude diseases and chronic conditions. This study aims to elucidate the intrinsic relationship between ecological adaptability, bioactive compounds and health benefits, providing a theoretical basis for the targeted development of functional foods and natural medicines from high-altitude plants. It also offers new strategies for promoting public health (particularly for populations in special environments and those in sub-optimal health), serving the national 'Healthy China 2030' strategy whilst emphasizing the key role of ecological adaptability research in uncovering the health benefits of plants, thereby contributing new insights to international high-altitude health research.

Keywords

Plateau; Plants; Adaptation; Health Promotion

References

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