Medicinal plant distribution and conservation in Nagaland districts.

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Distribution and conservation of medicinal plants in, kohima mokokchung, tuenseng and zunheboto districts of nagaland
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Author:

Rama Shankar, A. K. Tripathi, Shazia Neyaz, Gyati Anku


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Distribution and conservation of medicinal plants in, kohima mokokchung, tuenseng and zunheboto districts of nagaland

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study conducted by Shankar et al. focuses on the distribution and conservation of medicinal plants across the districts of Kohima, Mokokchung, Tuensang, and Zunheboto in Nagaland, India. Nagaland, characterized by its rich biodiversity and tribal communities, offers a unique environment for the exploration and utilization of medicinal plants. The diverse ecosystems in the state are home to a variety of plant species, many of which hold high medicinal value. The research aims to document the potential of these plants for sustainable collection and conservation while highlighting the importance of local knowledge in traditional practices.

Sustainable Collection Practices

One critical concept addressed in the paper is the need for sustainable collection practices of medicinal plants. The authors highlight that local traditional healers extensively use and collect various medicinal plants, often engaging in unplanned and non-scientific collection methods. This includes uprooting entire plants, cutting trees for bark, and harvesting immature fruits, which can diminish the plants’ availability and disrupt the ecosystem. To mitigate such issues, the paper emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices, which can help preserve the medicinal flora while ensuring that local communities continue to benefit from their use.

The Rich Diversity of Medicinal Plants

The study identifies a total of 125 species of medicinal plants belonging to 118 genera and 62 families, illustrating the rich diversity present in Nagaland's forests. Asteraceae and Solanaceae emerge as the families with the highest representation, each contributing seven species. This biodiversity not only enriches the local flora but also presents opportunities for commercial exploitation and traditional healing. The findings indicate that greater awareness and systematic exploration of these plants can lead to better conservation strategies, promoting both ethnobotanical knowledge and environmental sustainability in the region.

Role of Local Communities in Conservation

The research points out the pivotal role of local communities in the conservation of medicinal plants. Interaction with local people, who possess valuable knowledge about plant collection and utilization, is crucial for understanding the sustainability of these practices. The study proposes incorporating traditional ecological knowledge into conservation efforts, encouraging practices that align with local customs, and fostering community involvement to sustain the use of medicinal plants. By bridging modern scientific research and traditional wisdom, a more effective conservation strategy can be developed, ensuring the survival of these vital resources.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the exploration of medicinal plants in Nagaland undertaken by Shankar et al. highlights the urgent need for sustainable collection methods, documentation of plant diversity, and the valuable role of local communities in conservation efforts. The findings suggest that a collaborative approach involving scientific research and local knowledge can enhance the conservation of medicinal plants while supporting the cultural practices of the indigenous tribes. As the demand for herbal medicines continues to rise, it is imperative to implement sustainable practices that protect both the plants and the habitats they thrive in, thus ensuring the preservation of this invaluable natural heritage for future generations.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What medicinal plants were explored in Nagaland's various districts?

Medicinal plants explored include Acorus calamus, Aquilaria malaccensis, Costus speciosus, Curcuma caesia, and many others. These plants are found in Kohima, Mokokchung, Tuensang, and Zunheboto regions.

What is the primary method used for collecting plant data?

The methodology involves extensive exploration using GPS for location tracking, along with quadrate sampling to determine the frequency and distribution of medicinal plants within specified areas.

How do local people utilize medicinal plants in Nagaland?

Local traditional healers use these plants for treating various ailments. Additionally, some species are collected for trade, highlighting the importance of these plants in local health practices and economy.

What conservation measures are suggested for medicinal plants?

The paper suggests sustainable collection practices, in-situ conservation, and methods for cultivating high-demand medicinal plants to ensure their availability while also meeting the needs of local communities.

Which families of plants were most frequently identified in the study?

The study identified 125 medicinal plant species from various families, with Asteraceae and Solanaceae being the most represented, each containing seven species. Other families were less diverse.

What is the aim of studying medicinal plants in Nagaland?

The aim is to document the distribution and conservation status of medicinal plants, promote sustainable practices, and enhance knowledge about their uses in traditional medicine and commerce.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Medicinal plant distribution and conservation in Nagaland districts.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Tree:
Trees are vital components of forests, providing habitat for wildlife and contributing to biodiversity. They also play a crucial role in the ecosystem by aiding in air purification, carbon sequestration, and soil stabilization. The medicinal plants mentioned in the study often grow in forested areas where trees provide the necessary environment for their growth.

2) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom of many diseases and health conditions. In traditional medicine, various plants are utilized to reduce fever. The study mentions several medicinal plants, like *Embelia ribes*, which are used by local healers to treat fever, demonstrating their importance in folk remedies.

3) Forest:
Forests in Nagaland cover significant areas and are rich in biodiversity. They are the natural habitat for many medicinal plants studied, offering a source of materials for traditional medicine, which supports local health practices. Exploration of these forests is integral to understanding the distribution of medicinal flora.

4) Species:
The term 'species' refers to distinct groups of organisms that can interbreed. In the context of the study, a diverse range of species of medicinal plants, like *Oroxylum indicum* and *Acorus calamus*, are identified. The conservation of these species is crucial for maintaining traditional medicine practices.

5) Disease:
Diseases such as rheumatism, hypertension, and various infections can be treated with medicinal plants documented in the study. Understanding the relationship between specific plants and the diseases they treat is essential in traditional medicine, highlighting the need for effective conservation strategies for these plants.

6) India:
India is known for its rich biodiversity and traditional medicinal practices. The study focuses on Nagaland, a northeastern state of India, showcasing how local resources like medicinal plants contribute to healthcare. It underscores the region's potential for herbal medicine and conservation of its unique flora.

7) Study (Studying):
The study examines the distribution and conservation of medicinal plants in Nagaland, identifying their uses, habitats, and the knowledge of local tribes. It emphasizes the importance of scientific exploration to document traditional knowledge and ensure the sustainable use of these valuable natural resources.

8) Wall:
In the context of ecology and botany, 'wall' can refer to physical barriers that affect the distribution of plants. This concept can be important in understanding the habitat fragmentation in forests due to human activities, influencing the availability and conservation of medicinal plant species.

9) Pain:
Pain is a common ailment managed through various medicinal plants. The study references local herbs that aid in alleviating pain, demonstrating the significance of these plants in traditional healing practices. Proper identification of pain-relieving plants is essential to enhance local healthcare.

10) Oroxylum indicum:
*Oroxylum indicum* is a medicinal tree known for its use in treating various ailments such as cough and wounds. The study highlights its significance in traditional medicine and stresses the need for sustainable harvesting practices to preserve this valuable species for future generations.

11) Acorus calamus:
*Acorus calamus*, also known as sweet flag, is utilized for its medicinal properties, including as a remedy for digestive issues and headaches. The research emphasizes its high demand and the importance of conservation efforts to ensure its continued availability in the wild.

12) Embelia ribes:
*Embelia ribes,* known as Vidanga, is studied for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. The local communities recognize its value in traditional practices, which necessitates careful study and conservation strategies due to its potential over-exploitation.

13) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine in India that uses various herbs and plants for healing purposes. The study is tied to Ayurvedic practices, reflecting how local herbal knowledge supports cultural healthcare systems and highlighting the relevance of sustaining herbal biodiversity.

14) Village:
Villages in Nagaland are often the center of traditional herbal medicine practices. The study includes various localities and highlights the importance of community knowledge in the collection and application of medicinal plants, which are integral to their cultural identity and health.

15) Costus:
*Costus* species are known for their medicinal properties, including the treatment of cough and digestive disorders. The study mentions these plants to illustrate the diverse medicinal flora of Nagaland and emphasizes the need for their conservation amidst growing medicinal plant cultivation.

16) Ulcer:
Ulcers are painful sores that can be treated using various medicinal plants. The research identifies local plants that have a history of medicinal use for ulcer treatment, showcasing the need for ongoing studies to validate these traditional applications in modern medicine.

17) Table:
The study includes tables that systematically present data regarding the distribution and frequency of medicinal plants. Tables serve as a concise way to summarize important information, making it easier for the reader to comprehend the study's findings.

18) Rubu:
The mention of *Rubia cordifolia*, known as Rubia, relates to its medicinal applications, particularly in treating skin diseases. Documenting the uses and habitats of such plants is essential in traditional medicine and contributes to public health knowledge in the region.

19) Sida (Shida):
The *Sida* genus includes various species used in traditional medicine. The study refers to them to highlight their applications in treating various ailments, emphasizing the necessity for conservation to prevent loss of these valuable resources for future use.

20) Worm:
Medicinal plants are often employed to treat worm infestations. The study acknowledges the traditional applications of certain plants in managing parasitic infections, underscoring the importance of maintaining these plant species to ensure they remain available for future treatments.

21) Curcuma longa:
*Curcuma longa*, commonly known as turmeric, is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Highlighted in the study, it serves not only for culinary purposes but also plays a significant role in traditional medicine, advocating for its conservation and sustainable use.

22) New Delhi:
New Delhi, the capital of India, represents the administrative and healthcare hub of the country. It is mentioned in the study as the location of essential research institutions and funding bodies that contribute to the documentation and promotion of traditional medicinal practices.

23) Asparagus racemosus:
*Asparagus racemosus*, or Shatavari, is acknowledged for its adaptogenic properties and use in women's health and reproductive issues. The study emphasizes this plant's significance, indicating the necessity of conservation due to its high demand in traditional medicine.

24) Abrus precatorius:
*Abrus precatorius* is known for its medicinal properties but also for its toxic potential. The study addresses its dual nature, highlighting the importance of incorporating traditional knowledge into safe use practices while exploring sustainable gardening and harvesting methodologies.

25) Ricinus communis:
*Ricinus communis*, or castor oil plant, is significant for its oil which is used both medicinally and industrially. Its mention in the study underscores the need for balanced approaches in harvesting to prevent overexploitation while maintaining its availability for therapeutic uses.

26) Observation:
Observation is a crucial part of scientific inquiry, particularly in botanical studies. The research conducted in Nagaland involved careful observation of medicinal plants' habitats, uses, and distribution, which informs conservation strategies and sustainable harvesting practices.

27) Snake-bite:
Snake-bite is a medical emergency often treated with herbal remedies. The study notes several plants used in traditional practices for their antidotal properties, highlighting the need for further research to identify and sustainably manage these critical resources for local health interventions.

28) Kantakari (Kamtakari):
Kantakari, known for its medicinal uses, is particularly noted for treating respiratory issues. The study points to its role among local healers, emphasizing the importance of documenting such plants to ensure that valuable knowledge and practices are preserved.

29) Jivanti (Jivamti):
Jivanti, or *Trema orientalis*, is valued for its restorative properties in traditional medicine. The study exemplifies the significance of Jivanti and similar plants, reinforcing the need for conservation to maintain biodiversity and medicinal heritage.

30) Gwalior:
Gwalior is referenced in the study as a location associated with the National Vrkshayurveda Research Institute, indicating the significance of urban centers in supporting herbal research and conservation efforts in rural areas like Nagaland.

31) Science (Scientific):
Scientific approaches are essential for documenting and validating traditional medicinal practices. The study employs rigorous methodologies to explore species distribution and conservation, reinforcing the need for evidence-based practices in utilizing herbal resources sustainably.

32) Indian:
Indian traditional health systems, including Ayurveda, are rich in herbal knowledge. The study showcases the diversity of medicinal plants native to India, emphasizing the relevance of preserving this knowledge for holistic health and wellness in local communities.

33) Amara:
Amara refers to plants with bitter or purgative properties used in traditional medicine for various ailments. The study highlights the local knowledge surrounding such plants, advocating for their conservation and continued use in health practices.

34) Delhi:
Delhi, as the capital city, is often a focal point for health policy and herbal medicine promotion in India. The study mentions it as a hub for research institutions that support traditional medicine, signifying the city's importance in health and wellness.

35) Chang:
Chang, an ethnic group native to Nagaland, contributes to the diversity of traditional healing practices. The study reflects on the knowledge of different tribes, emphasizing the need to document their use of local flora in maintaining health and wellness.

36) Cina:
China is mentioned in the context of traditional medicine, highlighting similarities in herbal practices between neighboring countries. The study reflects on the regional importance of maintaining herbal biodiversity which is crucial for both local and transnational medicinal knowledge.

37) Bala:
Bala is a local name for *Sida rhombifolia*, a plant known for its medicinal properties. The study emphasizes the importance of plants with regional names and their roles in the cultural practices of health among indigenous communities.

38) Rama:
Rama, possibly referring to one of the authors, signifies the collaborative nature of scientific research. The acknowledgment of researchers underscores the team effort necessary for thorough documentation and study of medicinal plants in the regions.

39) Food:
Food sources often overlap with medicinal plants in traditional practices. The study highlights the importance of understanding the dual purpose of many plants, which serve both nutritional and medicinal roles in local diets and health practices.

40) Road:
Roads provide access to remote areas, facilitating the collection and trade of medicinal plants. The study notes the significance of transportation routes in connecting local communities to larger markets, which can impact conservation efforts and sustainability.

41) Tinospora cordifolia:
*Tinospora cordifolia* is widely recognized for its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. The study focuses on its role in traditional healing, showcasing its importance in managing various health conditions and the necessity for conserving this valuable plant.

42) Rheumatoid arthritis:
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder often treated with herbal remedies. The study highlights plants used in traditional practices for its management, emphasizing the need for research on their efficacy to better integrate them into modern healthcare.

43) Dioscorea bulbifera:
*Dioscorea bulbifera*, known as air yam, is valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties. The research points to its importance in traditional diets and its potential in treating various ailments, advocating for conservation to sustain this resource.

44) Cinnamomum tamala:
*Cinnamomum tamala*, commonly known as bay leaf, is recognized for its culinary and medicinal uses. Its mention in the study emphasizes the need to appreciate and preserve such plants for their contribution to health and traditional cooking.

45) Rubia cordifolia:
Rubia cordifolia, known for its dyeing properties and medicinal uses, is referenced to highlight the cultural significance of plants in traditional practices. The study stresses the importance of conserving such plants for their historical and practical applications.

46) Argyreia nervosa:
*Argyreia nervosa*, or Hawaiian baby woodrose, is noted for its medicinal applications particularly in traditional contexts. The study reflects on its uses and the need for ongoing research to ensure its sustainable management and conservation.

47) Mangifera indica:
*Mangifera indica*, or mango, holds both nutritional and medicinal value. The mention of this fruit in the study illustrates the intersection of food and medicine, stressing the importance of maintaining this culturally significant plant.

48) Mental disorder:
Mental disorders are increasingly recognized as conditions that can benefit from herbal therapy. The study highlights various plants that may offer therapeutic benefits for mental health, supporting the integration of traditional practices into modern psychological care.

49) Eastern India:
Eastern India, including Nagaland, is rich in biodiversity and traditional healing practices. The study emphasizes the importance of region-specific plants and their applications in local health systems, underscoring the need for conservation across this diverse ecological landscape.

50) Mesua ferrea:
*Mesua ferrea*, known for its ornamental and medicinal properties, is mentioned in the study to highlight its significance in traditional medicine. Its conservation is vital due to local reliance on its therapeutic usage and ecological role.

51) Desmodium gangeticum:
*Desmodium gangeticum* is recognized for its role in traditional medicine, particularly in treating respiratory issues. The study accentuates its value in local health practices, emphasizing the need for preservation as it continues to serve the community's health needs.

52) Gmelina arborea:
*Gmelina arborea* is an important timber and medicinal tree. Its mention in the study stresses the dual significance of plants which are essential for both ecological stability and traditional medicine, highlighting the importance of managed approaches to harvesting.

53) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to substances or plants that combat bacterial infections. The study showcases various medicinal plants with recognized antibacterial properties, emphasizing their relevance in traditional and complementary medicine in treating various infectious diseases.

54) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a key physiological response often targeted in traditional medicine. The study references several plants known for their anti-inflammatory effects, crucial for managing chronic conditions, highlighting the need for research and conservation of these valuable plant resources.

55) Gajapippali (Gaja-pippali):
Gajapippali, or *Peperomia pellucida*, is traditionally used for its medicinal properties. The study notes its importance in local medicinal practices, underscoring the need for conservation and understanding of such plants to ensure their continued availability for healthcare use.

56) Shalaparni (Salaparni):
Shalaparni, or *Desmodium gangeticum*, is recognized for its medicinal properties, especially in Ayurvedic practices. The study's mention of this plant highlights its significance in managing health issues and the necessity to promote its use and conservation.

57) Discussion:
The discussion section of the study provides insights into the implications of findings related to the conservation of medicinal plants. It addresses challenges faced in traditional practices, emphasizing the importance of integrating scientific research into local medicinal knowledge to bolster conservation efforts.

58) Collecting:
Collecting medicinal plants is a practice deeply rooted in traditional healing systems. The study highlights sustainable collecting methods that should be adopted to preserve biodiversity while ensuring that local communities retain access to these resources.

59) Rajapatha (Rajan-patha):
Rajapatha, a plant known for its medicinal properties, is discussed within the context of traditional remedies. The study highlights such plants to stress the importance of cataloging local flora for their therapeutic potential and to promote their sustainable use.

60) Bahupatra (Bahu-patra):
Bahupatra, or *Phyllanthus amarus*, is utilized in traditional practices for its various health benefits. The recognition of this plant in the study illustrates the significant role of local herbs in managing health, prompting the need for further research and conservation.

61) Knowledge:
Knowledge of medicinal plants and their uses is pivotal for effective traditional medicine. The study emphasizes the need to preserve and document local knowledge to ensure the continued application of herbal remedies for health and wellness.

62) Prithvika (Prthvika):
Prthvika is typically associated with natural and therapeutic properties in herbal medicine. The study references this plant to highlight the role of regional flora in addressing health challenges, advocating for its conservation and use in treatments.

63) Amrataka:
Amrataka, or *Spondias pinnata*, is acknowledged for its healing properties in the study. The need to conserve such regional plants is emphasized, ensuring traditional practices can continue to benefit from these natural resources.

64) Sahadevi (Saha-devi):
Sahadevi, broadly known for its roles in treating various ailments, is mentioned in the study to underline the significance of regional plants. Awareness of such medicinal flora is essential for conservation efforts and traditional healthcare support.

65) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses a broad range of practices and substances used to maintain health and treat ailments. The study underscores the significance of traditional medicine in Nagaland, emphasizing the vital role of local flora in ongoing healthcare practices.

66) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a common symptom of many health conditions. The study notes several plants traditionally used to manage nausea and vomiting, thereby highlighting the continued relevance of herbal treatments in local healthcare practices and underscoring the need for research.

67) Swelling:
Swelling indicates inflammation or accumulation of fluids in the body, often treated using medicinal plants. The research highlights local flora recognized for their anti-inflammatory properties, essential for traditional practitioners in managing swelling-related health issues.

68) Activity:
Activity in the context of the study refers to the biological effects of medicinal plants in treating ailments. Understanding the pharmacological activities of various species is crucial in supporting their continued use in traditional and modern medical practices.

69) Bleeding:
Bleeding, whether external or internal, can be life-threatening and is often addressed with herbal remedies. The study points to plants known in traditional practices to aid in blood clotting, emphasizing the need to identify and conserve such vital resources.

70) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that can be managed using various traditional medicinal plants. The study includes discussions on plants known for their anticonvulsant properties, underlining the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with evidence-based research in treating epilepsy.

71) Hysteria:
Hysteria, often linked to mental health, can be approached with natural remedies. The study highlights various plants believed to support mental well-being, showcasing traditional practices and the need for continued research into these treatments.

72) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit, the ancient language of India, often contains references to medicinal plants and practices in Ayurvedic scriptures. The study taps into this historical context, illustrating the deep-rooted connections between language, culture, and healthcare in Indian traditions.

73) Vidanga (Vidamga):
Vidanga, or *Embelia ribes*, is valued in traditional medicine for its various health benefits. Recognizing its significance, the study advocates for its conservation and sustainable usage, ensuring its availability for future medicinal applications.

74) Brihati (Brhati):
Brihati, significant in Ayurvedic medicine, is referenced in the study to highlight its traditional applications and the importance of preserving such plants for their medicinal properties, encouraging research into their benefits and conservation.

75) Pippali (Pippalin):
Pippali, known as *Piper longum*, is recognized for its medicinal effects, particularly in respiratory health. The study emphasizes the necessity of conserving such valuable plants for their continued role in traditional and complementary healthcare.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 120]

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Medicinal plant distribution and conservation in Nagaland districts.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Medicinal plant, Cultural significance, Cultivation of medicinal plants, Natural habitat, Population density, Research article, Census 2011, Commercial exploitation, Local traditional healers, Plant conservation, Biodiversity, Medicinal garden, Sustainable collection, Ethno-medicinal plant.

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