Abstract

REVIEW ARTICLE ON ETHNOMEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY TRIBES ACROSS INDIA

Misba Mustak Patel*, Dr. Naomita Dhume*, Shejal Sitaram Sumbhe, Palvi Satish Kamat, Maria Seelan Nadar and Mariyah Patel

.

Abstract

The rich and diverse cultural heritage of India is reflected in the traditional knowledge and practices of its indigenous tribes, especially in the field of ethnomedicine. This review article aims to explore the medicinal plants that are exclusively used by tribal communities across various ecological zones of India, highlighting their therapeutic potential and conservation status. Tribes residing in different geographical regions, from the Himalayan foothills to the coastal areas and the dense forests of central India, utilize a wide array of plant species for treating various ailments. These plants are integral to the healthcare systems of tribal societies, often serving as the primary source of medicine. The article reviews the ethnobotanical knowledge of these plants, examining their traditional uses and/or pharmacological properties. This review aims to contribute to the documentation of indigenous knowledge, fostering the preservation of tribal traditions and promoting the importance and significance of these plants for modern pharmacology.

Keywords: Ethnomedicinal plants, forests, tribes, traditional medicines, India.