Ethnomedicinal knowledge on the precise use of herbal medicine - An interview-based study on traditional healers from Jaunsar-Bawar region of Uttarakhand

Abstract

Background: Jaunsar-Bawar region of Uttarakhand is well-known for its rich biodiversity. In continuation of our previous field survey on traditional medicinal plants used in diabetes mellitus, this study was designed to gather traditional knowledge about when and how the herbal remedies are used for different ailments by the tribal people.Methods: Information about the use of medicinal plants was collected from different folk healers of the region. The plant specimens were collected from their natural habitat and authenticated in the laboratory of Materia Medica and Taxonomy.Results: Out of the 200 plants, 41 species belonging to 27 families have been explored in this study based on their availability and potency. Most of the selected plants were found to be used topically while a few were suggested for oral use. These plants have been found effective in curing cuts, wounds, boils, bone fracture, muscular pain, inflammation, fever, mouth ulcer, stomach ache, headache and many other conditions. Conclusion:The study concludes that these plants have the potential to treat various health conditions. Exploration of these plants scientifically will be a great addition to the field of herbal medicine.