Ethno-dermatological practices among Ao (Naga) tribe in Mokokchung district, Nagaland, India

Abstract

Background Skin diseases are among the common problems in the world. For centuries folk medicine and medicinal plants were employed by ethnic communities as medicines. A survey was carried out to document the medicinal plant diversity and folk formulation traditionally practiced by the Ao (Naga) tribe in Mokokchung district, Nagaland, India for the treatment of skin diseases. Materials and Methods The survey was carried out from September, 2021 to September, 2023. The information was gathered using a pre-structured questionnaire format. Discussion with the traditional healers was conducted. Results A total of 32 plant species belonging to 30 families were documented. Among the 32 plant species, 16 are herbs, 10 are shrubs, 4 are trees, and 2 are climbers. A total of 12 distinct skin disorders are reported commonly occurring among the Ao (Naga) tribes, which are treated traditionally. Among the different plant parts, leaves are most frequently used part for the treatment of various skin diseases followed by roots, latex, fruit, stems, bulbs, rhizomes and seeds. A total of 9 folk formulations that are used for the treatment of skin disease are also documented. Conclusion This study documented the traditional knowledge and folk medicine for the treatment of skin disorders, which will be helpful for further investigation in the field of pharmacognosy in the aspect of drug design and development.