Medicinal plants represent one of the most significant sectors of the national economy. Given their role in meeting public needs, supplying raw materials for industries, creating employment, and generating income, the stability and continuity of this sector are regarded as key contributors to sustainable economic development and the viability of rural settlements. Beyond serving as a stable source of income, this industry can reduce income inequality and enhance economic stability in rural areas, which are among the main drivers of rural-to-urban migration—a challenge increasingly faced by many urban regions in Iran. Tourism, as one of the fastest-growing industries, has amplified these dynamics. With the expansion of tourism, new needs and demands emerge, leading to increased demand for goods, services, and facilities. This development creates opportunities for new businesses, fosters entrepreneurial spirit among rural women, and stimulates investment and the establishment of new enterprises in rural areas. Consequently, the growth of tourism transforms the rural environment into an economically dynamic setting and, in practice, into a motivational and stimulating environment for rural women’s entrepreneurship.

This study employed a descriptive-survey method. The statistical population included all rural women in Charam County, among whom 100 individuals were randomly selected as the sample. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 23 and the one-sample t-test. The results indicated that medicinal plants in mountainous regions significantly contribute to rural women’s employment across social, economic, and cultural dimensions (p < 0.05).