A Review on Ramie (Boehmeria nivea L. Gaudich.): From Textile to Medicine and the Threats of Pests and Diseases

Ramie (Boehmeria nivea L. Gaud.), also known as “China grass”, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Urticaceae family. Ramie is considered one of the ancient and important economic and natural fiber crops today. Indeed, ramie fiber ranks first in durability, tensile strength, length of fiber cells, fineness, and color. Aside from its role in the textile industry, ramie is also known for its role in traditional herbal medicine. Indeed, ramie plant extracts have been documented to benefit various organ systems of the human body. This paper reviews the advances in ramie cultivation, taxonomy, ecology, chemistry, industry use, and medicinal and therapeutic properties. Then, we discuss the current pests and diseases affecting ramie plant growth and cultivation. For instance, ramie anthracnose may yield losses averaging 20% and ranging as high as 55%. Pests like Tarbinskiellus (Brachytrypes) portentosus can cause up to 50% damage by consuming young shoots and damaging rhizomes. In contrast, the Indian red admiral caterpillar, Vanessa (Pyrameis) indica, causes up to 30% infestations. Pest management strategies can make up 15-20% of plantation costs through chemical spraying. This review would be useful in maximizing the potential benefits of ramie in the fiber industry and medicine. This is also the first review of the biotic stress affecting ramie, which may be used as a guide for future research works that aim towards a sustainable and environment-friendly pest and disease management approach, ensuring sustainable and profitable ramie cultivation.