Indigenous medicinal uses of shrubs in western Parsa, Nepal.

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Indigenous medicinal practices of shrub species in the western part of parsa district, nepal
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:

Shila Singh


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World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Indigenous medicinal practices of shrub species in the western part of parsa district, nepal

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

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20213-19841

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study conducted by Shila Singh aimed to document the indigenous medicinal practices involving shrub species in the western part of Parsa District, Nepal. Utilizing ethnobotanical methodologies such as semi-structured interviews and group discussions, the research gathered information on the utilization of 31 identified plant species belonging to 28 genera and 16 families for treating 49 diseases. It highlighted the significance of local knowledge among the Tharu community in utilizing these plants, as well as the threats posed to this knowledge due to agricultural expansion and the indifference of younger generations towards traditional healing practices.

Indigenous Knowledge and Its Importance

One of the key findings of the study was the high level of indigenous knowledge regarding medicinal plants among local communities. The Tharu people exhibited a robust understanding of how to prepare and utilize different plant parts for treating various health issues, such as arthritis, cough, fever, diabetes, and skin disorders. The most commonly used parts of these plants were leaves (31%) and roots (28%), with decoction being the prevalent mode of preparation (23%). This strong reliance on local herbal medicine emphasizes the need for documenting and preserving traditional knowledge as an invaluable cultural and medicinal resource.

Threats to Medicinal Knowledge

The study also underscored the significant threats to indigenous medicinal knowledge and biodiversity in the Parsa District. Despite the rich ethno-botanical resources available, factors such as agricultural development, modernization, and shifting preferences towards conventional medicine have led to a decline in the usage of traditional herbal remedies. Younger individuals are increasingly disconnected from this wealth of knowledge, which could lead to its erosion over time. Therefore, there is an urgent need to engage local communities in conservation efforts to safeguard both the indigenous knowledge and the biodiversity of medicinal plants.

Medicinal Plants and Their Applications

The research cataloged numerous medicinal uses for the identified shrub species, detailing diverse ailments they address. For instance, plants like Rauvolfia serpentina were noted for treating malaria and nervous system disorders, while Hibiscus rosa-sinensis was useful for arthritis and venereal diseases. Each plant's effectiveness was assessed based on citation percentage, revealing how common each treatment was among local practitioners. Preference analysis indicated that certain plants, such as Vitex negundo, were favored for digestive problems, while others, like Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, were preferred for treating venereal diseases.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the research highlighted the rich ethnomedicinal traditions of the Tharu community in Parsa District, emphasizing the urgent need for documentation and conservation of this knowledge. With modern medicine becoming more readily available, there is a real danger that traditional practices and plants could become obsolete. To mitigate this risk, proactive measures to educate the younger generation and preserve indigenous practices are critical. Fostering awareness and encouraging sustainable practices among local communities can help ensure the survival of this invaluable ethnobotanical heritage for future generations.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the focus of Shila Singh's study in Parsa district?

The study documents the indigenous medicinal practices of shrub species and assesses local awareness about conservation of medicinal knowledge and biodiversity in Parsa district, Nepal.

How many plant species were reported for medicinal use in the study?

A total of 31 plant species from 28 genera and 16 families were documented for treating 49 different ailments in the study area.

Which plant parts are most frequently used for herbal medicine?

In the study, leaves (31%) and roots (28%) were the most commonly utilized parts of plants for preparing traditional herbal medicines among the local people.

What methods are used to prepare traditional herbal medicines?

Various preparation methods include decoction, paste, powder, juice, infusion, and poultice. Decoction was the most frequently used method at 23%.

What major threats are impacting the knowledge of medicinal plants?

Agricultural expansion and a decline in interest among younger generations pose significant threats to preserving traditional knowledge and biodiversity in the area.

How can the local community help conserve medicinal plants?

Community members should be encouraged for sustainable collection practices and domestication of medicinal plants, which can contribute to local economic growth and conservation efforts.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Indigenous medicinal uses of shrubs in western Parsa, Nepal.”. 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) Disease:
Diseases encompass a broader range of health conditions that affect individuals. The study focuses on how various plant species are utilized to address these diseases, underlining the significance of traditional medicine in local communities facing health disparities and limited access to modern healthcare.

2) Species:
Species relates to the different kinds of plants identified in the study. Understanding the variety of species is crucial for recognizing biodiversity and developing effective treatments based on traditional knowledge, thus contributing to both health care and conservation efforts in Parsa District.

3) Study (Studying):
Study denotes the systematic investigation conducted to document indigenous medicinal practices. This research aims to identify plant species, their medicinal uses, and the conservation of ethnobotanical knowledge, contributing to preserving traditional practices and improving health outcomes in the local community.

4) Medicine:
Medicines encapsulate various treatments derived from plants that local people use to address health issues. The study emphasizes the reliance on these traditional remedies, illustrating their significance in the healthcare practices of the Tharu community and contributions to local health management.

5) Powder:
Powder denotes one of the methods of preparing traditional medicines as outlined in the study. It emphasizes the different forms in which plant materials can be utilized for medicinal purposes, showcasing the versatility of plant-based treatments within the indigenous knowledge system.

6) Knowledge:
Knowledge signifies the understanding and wisdom shared by the Tharu community regarding the use of medicinal plants. This ethnobotanical knowledge is vital for preserving cultural heritage and ensuring effective healthcare practices in areas where modern medicine may be less accessible.

7) Table:
Table refers to the organized presentation of data in the study, summarizing various shrub species, their medicinal uses, modes of administration, and citation percentages. It serves as a vital tool for easily understanding the findings and provides a quick reference for researchers and practitioners.

8) Fever:
Fever is a common symptom often addressed by traditional medicine. It highlights the reasons for using specific plant species within the study. Various preparations of herbal remedies are developed to alleviate fever symptoms, indicating the role of local plants in managing common health issues.

9) Pain:
Pain denotes discomfort experienced by individuals, a common reason for seeking medical treatment. The study documents various plant species used to alleviate pain, reflecting the importance of traditional medicine for managing pain within the Tharu community, demonstrating their reliance on herbal remedies.

10) Taru:
Tharu refers to the indigenous community residing in the Parsa District. Their unique knowledge of medicinal plants reflects traditional practices shaping their healthcare, cultural identity, and local biodiversity. The study highlights their role in preserving and continuing these invaluable practices.

11) Drug:
Drugs indicate substances prescribed or used for treatment purposes. Within the context of the study, it highlights the exploration of plant-based drugs derived from local species, emphasizing the potential for developing effective treatment options grounded in traditional practices complemented by scientific validation.

12) Ulcer:
Ulcers represent a health issue that the study aims to address through documented plant use. They are important events for traditional treatments, reflecting the community's reliance on indigenous knowledge and practices for managing common health problems effectively with local resources.

13) Basti:
Basti is a local term associated with specific geographical areas within the context of the study. It emphasizes the location and cultural significance of the villages involved, reinforcing the connection between geography, community practices, and access to medicinal plant resources.

14) Milk:
Milk refers to a vital nutritional source and is associated with certain traditional remedies in the study. It highlights the use of specific plants to stimulate lactation in mothers, underscoring the importance of integrating local flora into health practices addressing maternal and child health.

15) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis is a serious infectious disease primarily affecting the lungs. The study highlights the role of local plant species used for treating this ailment, showcasing traditional medicine's relevance in public health, particularly in regions with limited access to modern treatment facilities.

16) Snake-bite:
Snake-bite refers to a medical emergency that can occur in rural areas. The study documents traditional remedies derived from specific plants utilized to treat snake bites, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge in managing critical health challenges faced by the community.

17) Village:
Village serves as a synonym for the communities investigated in the study. It highlights the localized focus of ethnobotanical research and the importance of community engagement in preserving indigenous knowledge and practices related to medicinal plant use.

18) Jasmine:
Jasmine refers to a flowering plant used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. The study documents its uses within the Tharu community, highlighting diverse applications of local flora in treating various ailments and enhancing the understanding of biodiversity.

19) Castor:
Castor is a plant known for its oil, which has several medicinal uses outlined in the study. It emphasizes the dual significance of the plant in both traditional remedies and potential modern pharmaceutical applications, showcasing the relationship between indigenous knowledge and contemporary health practices.

20) Family:
Family refers to the classification of plant species based on taxonomic relationships. The study categorizes identified shrub species into different families, providing an organized framework for understanding plant diversity and its relevance to both ethnobotanical knowledge and healthcare practices.

21) Field:
Field denotes the location where data was collected in the study. It emphasizes the importance of conducting fieldwork for acquiring firsthand knowledge of local practices, engaging with community members, and validating the uses of plant species in traditional medicine.

22) Hair:
Hair refers to a topic of medical interest addressed by some traditional remedies highlighted in the study. It emphasizes the use of specific plant species in the preparation of treatments for hair health, indicating the broad scope of medicinal applications within indigenous knowledge systems.

23) Inci (Imci):
Inch denotes a measurement often used for dosing medicinal plant preparations. Its relevance in the study underscores the need for precision in traditional medicine, especially when discussing the use of specific amounts of plant material for effective herbal treatments.

24) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analytical portion of the study where results are interpreted. This section provides insights into the implications of the findings, emphasizing the importance of ethnobotanical knowledge for preserving local biodiversity and improving health outcomes in the Tharu community.

25) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a symptom that indicates various underlying health issues. The study documents specific plant species used to treat this condition, showcasing the role of traditional remedies in managing gastrointestinal problems and reflecting the practical knowledge held by local healers.

26) Forest:
Forest signifies the natural habitat where medicinal plants grow. The study focuses on recognizing the ecological significance of local flora while promoting conservation efforts and sustainable use practices, highlighting the interconnectedness of biodiversity and traditional medicinal practices.

27) Honey:
Honey is mentioned as an ingredient in some traditional remedies highlighted in the study. Its significance lies in its medicinal properties and effectiveness as a natural sweetener, underscoring the integration of various natural ingredients in the preparation of herbal treatments.

28) Blood:
Blood is critical for understanding various health issues addressed by traditional medicine. The study includes references to conditions that pertain to blood, illustrating the necessity of using herbal remedies to manage systemic health problems rooted in local practices.

29) Rich (Rch):
Rich denotes the abundance of flora and medicinal plant resources available in the Parsa District. The study emphasizes the ecological wealth of this area and the importance of documenting and preserving the biodiversity that supports traditional medicinal practices.

30) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera, or Ashwagandha, is a plant noted for its medicinal uses in traditional medicine. Its mention in the study underscores the relevance of specific plants recognized for their health benefits, particularly in enhancing immunity and addressing various health conditions.

31) Mustard oil:
Mustard oil is referenced as an integral ingredient in traditional formulations. Its applications range widely in local practices, highlighting the importance of utilizing common household substances for therapeutic purposes, emphasizing the intersection between diet and medicinal treatment.

32) Ricinus communis:
Ricinus communis, or castor oil plant, is recognized for its diverse medicinal applications. The study highlights its significance in traditional remedies, showcasing how this widely available plant contributes to local healthcare and represents the relationship between indigenous knowledge and practical treatments.

33) Kathmandu:
Kathmandu is referenced as a significant location related to the research and its institutional framework. Its mention emphasizes the administrative and academic connections vital for conducting ethnobotanical research, showcasing the importance of collaboration between local communities and educational institutions.

34) Mustard:
Mustard refers to the oil produced from mustard seeds, commonly used in cooking and traditional remedies. Its significance in the study underscores the role of widely recognized ingredients in the preparation of herbal treatments, demonstrating the intermingling of culinary and medicinal practices.

35) Allergy:
Allergy denotes a common health concern addressed by traditional medicine within the study. The identification of plant species used for treating allergic reactions highlights the relevance of ethnomedicinal knowledge in managing contemporary health issues faced by the local community.

36) Botany:
Botany refers to the scientific study of plants and their uses. In the context of the research, it encompasses the investigation and documentation of indigenous plants for medicinal purposes, highlighting the intersection of scientific inquiry with traditional ecological knowledge.

37) Visit:
Visit refers to the action of conducting outreach or field studies. Its relevance lies in allowing researchers to engage directly with the community, facilitating the collection of ethnobotanical knowledge and understanding local health practices concerning medicinal plants.

38) Shila (Sila):
Shila refers to the corresponding author of the study. Her involvement emphasizes the role of researchers in documenting and disseminating knowledge about traditional medicine, contributing to the conservation of biodiversity and indigenous practices within the region.

39) Campu:
Campu relates to the institutional affiliation of the study's author, emphasizing the academic context of the research. It underscores the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and the communities studied in preserving traditional knowledge and ecological data.

40) Tree:
Tree emphasizes the plant categories covered in the research. Many shrubs and trees serve as sources for traditional medicine in the Tharu community, highlighting the importance of trees in both biodiversity and community health management.

41) Fire:
Fire can relate to traditional practices involving the preparation of medicines through cooking or drying. Its association within the study emphasizes the methods used in medicinal preparations that reflect indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage.

42) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, or Guduchi, is recognized for its medicinal properties, especially in boosting immunity. Its inclusion in the study underscores the importance of identifying specific plants valued for their contributions to health within traditional practices.

43) Acacia catechu:
Acacia catechu, or khayer, is a plant noted for its medicinal applications in local practices. Its mention highlights the importance of understanding the diversity of flora available in the region and its role in traditional health management.

44) Desmodium gangeticum:
Desmodium gangeticum is valued within traditional medicine for its various therapeutic applications. Its presence in the study reflects the reliance and use of specific plants to treat common health issues in the Tharu community, emphasizing local knowledge.

45) Plumbago zeylanica:
Plumbago zeylanica, or Chitubeli, is recognized in traditional medicine for its multiple uses. The study's documentation of this plant illustrates the importance of specific species in providing medicinal remedies that cater to the needs of local populations.

46) Dalbergia sissoo:
Dalbergia sissoo, or sisau, represents a significant tree species utilized in traditional applications. Highlighting its use in the study underscores the connections between regional flora, cultural practices, and sustainable resource management in the context of medicinal plants.

47) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical denotes the chemical compounds produced by plants that have biological significance. Its mention in the study aligns with the need for understanding the chemical properties of local flora, which could validate traditional uses and contribute to modern pharmacology.

48) Civilization:
Civilization relates to the development of human societies and their cultural practices over time. The study emphasizes the historical aspects of medicinal plant use, reflecting how traditional knowledge has persisted and shaped healthcare practices within communities.

49) Bombax ceiba:
Bombax ceiba, or silk cotton tree, is acknowledged for its traditional uses. Its mention in the study raises awareness of local flora that contributes to the ethobotanical landscape and highlights the need to preserve such species in the face of changing environments.

50) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a common physiological response linked to numerous health conditions treated by traditional medicine. The study documents plant species used to address inflammatory issues, underscoring the role of indigenous knowledge in managing various ailments within the community.

51) Developing:
Developing refers to the ongoing evolution of traditional medicine practices in response to environmental and societal changes. The study illustrates the adaptive nature of ethnobotanical knowledge, showing how local communities navigate challenges to maintain their medicinal heritage.

52) Science (Scientific):
Scientific denotes the methodical approach taken in the study to document and analyze traditional medicinal practices. The integration of scientific inquiry with local knowledge governs the validation and recognition of plant species important for health benefits.

53) Psychosis:
Psychosis refers to mental health conditions that can be treated with particular herbal remedies. The study illustrates the importance of documenting such uses of local plants, emphasizing the relevance of traditional knowledge in addressing a range of health issues.

54) Godavari (Go-davari):
Godavari signifies a location pertinent to the study, including research institutions or sites for plant identification. Its involvement emphasizes the contextualization of ethnobotanical research within specific geographical and institutional frameworks.

55) Himalaya (Hima-alaya):
Himalaya refers to the mountainous region rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. The mention of this area in the study connects the unique ecosystem to the diverse ethnic practices and traditional knowledge significant for local health management.

56) Swelling:
Swelling denotes a symptom of various health conditions that can be treated using herbal remedies. The study addresses specific plant applications for reducing swelling, demonstrating the broad utility of local flora in managing bodily ailments.

57) Richness:
Richness speaks to the abundance of medicinal plants and knowledge within the study area. It reflects biodiversity's significance, emphasizing the importance of preserving both plant species and the cultural wisdom surrounding their use in traditional healing.

58) Epilepsy:
Epilepsy refers to a neurological disorder treated by specific plant remedies documented in the study. Highlighting these uses underscores the significance of traditional medicine in addressing complex health conditions prevalent in local communities.

59) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning refers to a symptom often associated with various skin conditions or internal ailments treated by specific herbs. The study identifies plants used for alleviating burning sensations, illustrating the practical applications of traditional knowledge in addressing common health complaints.

60) Amatya:
Amatya signifies a reference to previous scholarly work related to the study. Citing earlier research provides context and supports the study's findings, illustrating the continuity of knowledge and the importance of collaborative scholarly discourse in ethnobotany.

61) Panthi (Pamthi):
Panthi indicates another reference to prior research. Its mention helps establish a foundation for the study’s current investigations, showcasing how past work continues to inform present understandings of traditional medicine in the context of plant use and application.

62) Muslin:
Muslin refers to a type of fabric used in traditional practices for applying herbal remedies or poultices. It highlights the integration of available materials in medicinal practices, reflecting the adaptive nature of resource use within cultural contexts.

63) Sissoo:
Sissoo relates to Dalbergia sissoo, a plant referenced in the study for its medicinal properties. Its identification underscores the utilization of specific tree species within local health traditions, emphasizing the importance of these plants in sustainable healthcare practices.

64) Summer:
Summer refers to one of the seasons in which field surveys were conducted for data collection. Its mention correlates with seasonal variations affecting plant availability and usage, reinforcing the importance of timely fieldwork in ethnobotanical research.

65) Cotton:
Cotton is referenced as a material potentially used in traditional remedies. Its inclusion in the study signifies the interplay between cultural practices and available resources, emphasizing the adaptability of local health solutions in response to environmental elements.

66) Indian:
Indian indicates the geographical and cultural context relevant to the study. It emphasizes the rich tapestry of ethnobotanical practices present across regions, highlighting how Indian traditions influence the understanding and usage of local plants for medicinal purposes.

67) Indigo:
Indigo signifies a plant, Indigofera, whose medicinal properties are noted in the study. Highlighting its applications underlines the importance of specific species within traditional healing practices, reflecting local communities' histories of knowledge and use.

68) Kanna:
Kanna refers to Clerodendrum viscosum, a plant included in the medicinal preparations documented in the study. Its significance lies in its use for treating ailments, emphasizing the richness of local flora available for traditional remedies.

69) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi refers to a reference or contributor in previous studies cited in the article. Mentioning scholars like Joshi helps establish credibility and continuity within the field of ethnobotanical research, linking past and present findings in the study.

70) Water:
Water represents a universal solvent often used in herbal medicine preparations. Its significance in the study underlines the practical aspects of traditional remedies, emphasizing how basic ingredients are incorporated into healing practices across various cultures.

71) Trade:
Trade denotes the exchange of medicinal plants or knowledge associated with them. The study touches on the economic aspects of utilizing traditional medicine, highlighting how local practices can intersect with broader trade practices and economic sustainability.

72) Labour (Labor):
Labor pertains to the physical and cultural efforts associated with traditional practices. It is significant when discussing the community's engagement in medicinal plant use, emphasizing the labor that goes into harvesting, preparing, and applying traditional remedies.

73) Earth:
Earth signifies the natural habitat from which medicinal plants are drawn. It emphasizes the essential connection between ecology and traditional medicine, underscoring the importance of preserving natural landscapes for sustaining local health practices.

74) Coral:
Coral relates contextually to Nyctanthes arbortristis, or coral jasmine, valued for its medicinal properties. Its presence illustrates the diversity of plants and their uses, reinforcing the notion that various botanical species play integral roles in traditional healing.

75) Lemon:
Lemon signifies Citrus aurantifolia, identified for its medicinal applications in the study. Its mention reflects the dual significance of common plants in culinary and health practices, underscoring the adaptability of local knowledge in utilizing available resources.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 84]

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Indigenous medicinal uses of shrubs in western Parsa, Nepal.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Natural remedies, Decoction, Cultural practice, Medicinal importance, Traditional healer, Plant species, Traditional herbal medicine, Biodiversity conservation, Ethnopharmacology, Ethnobotanical data, Conservation efforts, Medicinal plant resources, Human disease, Sustainable collection, Field visit, Shrub species, Local medicinal plants, Disease treatment methods, Agriculture expansion, Semi-structured interview, Indigenous medicinal practice.

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