Medicinal plants survey at Thiru Palani Murugan Kovil, Vavuniya.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Existence and survey of medicinal plants of thiru palani murugan kovil, asikulam, vavuniya district, northern province, sri lanka
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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S. R. Pholtan Rajeev.
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: Existence and survey of medicinal plants of thiru palani murugan kovil, asikulam, vavuniya district, northern province, sri lanka
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201611-6702
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The research article titled "Existence and Survey of Medicinal Plants of Thiru Palani Murugan Kovil, Asikulam, Vavuniya District, Northern Province, Sri Lanka" by S. R. Pholtan Rajeev presents a comprehensive survey of the medicinal plants found in the Vavuniya District, emphasizing their significance in local traditional medicine. The study highlights the area’s rich biodiversity of medicinal plants and documents the knowledge and practices of local traditional practitioners, who have utilized these plants for various ailments. The survey included interviews with local practitioners and users, as well as direct observations of the plants in their natural habitats.
Importance of Traditional Knowledge and Medicinal Plants
One critical aspect of this research is the importance of traditional knowledge in the use of medicinal plants for health care. The study reveals that a significant portion of the population in the Vavuniya District relies on traditional medicine due to its accessibility and the absence of side effects associated with these remedies. By documenting 65 commonly used medicinal plants from a pool of 280, the research reflects the depth of local knowledge that has been cultivated over generations. This traditional knowledge serves not only as a primary resource for health care but also contributes to the preservation of cultural practices surrounding herbal medicine.
Methodology and Data Collection
The methodology employed in the study is noteworthy as it provides a systematic approach to gathering data on medicinal plants. The research area, Asikulam, is characterized by its agricultural community, and interviews with 38 local inhabitants (both men and women) aged 35 and above were conducted in their native Tamil language to ensure accurate communication. The information gathered from traditional herbal medicine practitioners, herbal drug sellers, and literature was compiled to assess the medicinal uses of various plants. This method not only facilitates a broader understanding of local plant usage but also strengthens the reliability of the data, as at least two traditional practitioners had to confirm the medicinal applications of each plant listed.
Medicinal Uses and Biodiversity
The study identifies a rich biodiversity of medicinally important plant species, categorized into various families and ecological statuses. Each listed plant is accompanied by its medicinal uses, which range from treating common ailments like coughs and skin conditions to more complex therapies such as diabetes management and cancer treatment. The recorded botanical names, local names, and their respective families provide essential information for future research and utilization of these species. The detailed categorization into rare, common, fairly common, and abundant species allows for prioritized conservation efforts, as many plants are under threat due to habitat loss and overexploitation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the research conducted by S. R. Pholtan Rajeev offers invaluable insight into the medicinal plants of the Vavuniya District and the local traditional practitioners who utilize them. It underscores the necessity for further scientific investigation and validation of these traditional remedies within modern medicinal frameworks. By documenting the rich ethnobotanical knowledge, the study aims to promote the sustainable use and conservation of medicinal plants while contributing to the economic development of local communities. This research serves as a critical resource for ethno botanists, phyto-chemists, and pharmacologists interested in exploring the medicinal potential of the plants found in Northern Province, Sri Lanka.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the study conducted in Asikulam?
The study aims to document the existence and usage of medicinal plants in Asikulam, Vavuniya district, Sri Lanka. It highlights traditional knowledge and the various ailments these plants are used to treat by local practitioners.
How many medicinal plant families were identified in the survey?
The survey identified 33 families and a total of 65 medicinal plant species within a broader count of 280 plants that hold medicinal value, used commonly by local practitioners and communities.
What methods were employed to collect data during the survey?
Interviews were conducted with traditional practitioners and local people, focusing on their knowledge of medicinal plants. Direct observations for plant identification were also performed with the assistance of local healers.
What are some of the ecological statuses of the identified plants?
The identified plants have been categorized into different ecological statuses, such as common, abundant, threatened, and vulnerable, reflecting their availability and health in the Vavuniya district's environment.
How does traditional medicine benefit the community in Vavuniya district?
Traditional medicine offers essential healthcare services to about one-third of the population in Vavuniya district. It is accessible without charge and is seen as a safe alternative to modern medicine.
What future research does the study suggest regarding these medicinal plants?
The study encourages further scientific assessments of the medicinal plants, focusing on their phytochemistry, biological activities, and clinical efficacy. Such research could enhance the development of herbal drugs and traditional medicine practices.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Medicinal plants survey at Thiru Palani Murugan Kovil, Vavuniya.”. 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) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. In the context of the survey, traditional medicines derived from local plants were used by practitioners in the Vavuniya district to treat various ailments, demonstrating the significance of medicinal plants in healthcare.
2) Pain:
Pain is a physical sensation often signaling injury or illness. Various medicinal plants listed in the survey, such as Andrographis paniculata and Terminalia arjuna, are traditionally used to alleviate pain, highlighting their role in local healing practices.
3) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding and information gained through experience or education. The survey gathered traditional knowledge from local practitioners regarding the medicinal uses of indigenous plants, emphasizing the importance of preserving ethnobotanical knowledge for future generations.
4) Lanka (Lamka, Lànkà):
Lanka, commonly referred to as Sri Lanka, is the country where the survey took place. It is rich in biodiversity, including a plethora of medicinal plants that have been utilized in traditional practices for centuries, making it a culturally significant area for ethnobotany.
5) Disease:
Disease refers to any abnormal condition affecting the body. The study highlights the use of various medicinal plants to treat a range of diseases, showcasing the traditional practices employed in Vavuniya district for promoting health and wellness in the community.
6) Fever:
Fever is a common medical symptom characterized by elevated body temperature. Several plants surveyed, such as Andrographis paniculata and Tinospora cordifolia, are known for their efficacy in treating fever, reflecting the reliance on herbal remedies in traditional medicine.
7) Siddha:
Siddha is a traditional system of medicine originating from ancient Indian practices, particularly prevalent in Tamil Nadu, India. In Sri Lanka, local practitioners utilize Siddha knowledge to treat ailments with native plants, showcasing the intersection of culture and medicinal practices.
8) Worm:
Worm refers to parasitic infestations, which are common health issues. Plants like Abrus precatorius are traditionally used to treat such conditions, demonstrating the use of local flora in managing health problems in the surveyed community.
9) Drug:
A drug is any substance used to treat, cure, prevent, or diagnose disease. Many of the plants identified in the survey are potential sources for developing new drugs, emphasizing the significance of ethnobotanical studies in pharmacology.
10) Species:
Species refer to the basic unit of classification, a group of organisms capable of interbreeding. The survey cataloged 65 medicinal plant species in the Vavuniya district, underscoring the biodiversity and ecological importance of this area.
11) Family:
Family is a taxonomic rank in biological classification. The study recorded 33 families of medicinal plants, providing insight into the diversity and relationships of plant species used in traditional medicine within the ethnobotanical context.
12) Table:
In the context of the survey, tables were used to organize and present data on various medicinal plants, their families, uses, and ecological status, allowing for easy comparison and analysis of the information gathered from interviews.
13) Study (Studying):
Study refers to the systematic investigation of a subject. This study aimed to document and analyze the medicinal plants used by local practitioners in Asikulam, contributing to the field of ethnobotany and the preservation of traditional knowledge.
14) Leucoderma:
Leucoderma, also known as vitiligo, is a skin condition characterized by loss of pigmentation. Certain plants noted in the survey are used in traditional remedies targeting skin issues, reflecting the local community’s approach to managing such conditions.
15) Habitat:
Habitat refers to the natural environment in which plants or animals live. The survey took into account the natural habitats of the medicinal plants, contributing to understanding their ecological contexts and conservation needs.
16) Nelli:
Nelli (Phyllanthus emblica) is a medicinal plant known for its health benefits, such as improving digestion and enhancing immunity. Its relevance in local medicine aligns with the traditional practices documented in the Vavuniya district survey.
17) Tamil:
Tamil refers to the ethnic group and language predominantly spoken in the regions of Tamil Nadu, India, and Sri Lanka. The traditional healing practices documented in the survey were informed by the cultural context of the Tamil-speaking population.
18) Blood:
Blood is the fluid that circulates in the body, providing vital nutrients and oxygen. Some plants in the study, like Hemidesmus indicus, are used in traditional medicine for blood purification, highlighting their therapeutic significance.
19) Sida (Shida):
Sida refers to a genus of flowering plants. Sida cordifolia is mentioned in the survey for its medicinal uses, particularly as a tonic. Its identification exemplifies the local flora's role in traditional remedies.
20) Alla:
Alla might refer to a local medicinal name or a term in the practice of traditional medicine that denotes certain plant species or their uses. Understanding local terminology enriches the study of ethnomedicine.
21) Pala:
Pala is a term used to refer to various plants, including Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit). The significance of these plants in local diets and medicinal practices reflects their multifunctional roles in Sri Lankan culture.
22) Rich (Rch):
Rich refers to the abundance of resources available, particularly in the context of natural biodiversity. The Vavuniya district is rich in medicinal plants, which are vital for both local healthcare and potential pharmacological research.
23) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia, known for its medicinal properties in Ayurvedic medicine, is used for various ailments. Its identification in the survey highlights its importance in traditional healing practices among the locals.
24) Phyllanthus emblica:
Phyllanthus emblica (Nelli) is well-regarded for its rich vitamin C content and health benefits, especially in digestive health. Its use in traditional medicine underscores the importance of plant-derived remedies in local cultures.
25) Zingiber officinale:
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is recognized for its medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Its inclusion in the study renders insight into common kitchen remedies used in the community.
26) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica (Neem) is celebrated for its various health benefits, including its antiseptic properties. The survey highlights its relevance in traditional treatments, showcasing its significance in local healthcare practices.
27) Butea monosperma:
Butea monosperma, often called the flame of the forest, is utilized for its medicinal properties, including the treatment of respiratory issues. Its traditional usage aligns with the overall theme of the survey regarding local plant remedies.
28) Asparagus racemosus:
Asparagus racemosus, known as Shatavari, is recognized in traditional medicine as a tonic and for female reproductive health. The documentation of its uses adds to the understanding of local medicinal plants.
29) Abrus precatorius:
Abrus precatorius, popularly known as rosary pea, has uses in traditional medicine for addressing throat issues. The study’s inclusion of this plant underscores the community’s reliance on local flora for health management.
30) Terminalia arjuna:
Terminalia arjuna is a significant plant noted for its cardiovascular benefits in traditional medicine. Its traditional uses documented in the survey exemplify the heart health focus present in local remedies.
31) Gloriosa superba:
Gloriosa superba is a plant recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating snakebites. Its relevance is illustrated through traditional usage documented in the study, portraying local practices of managing emergencies.
32) Ricinus communis:
Ricinus communis, commonly known as castor oil plant, is used for its laxative properties and in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. Its documentation reflects the diversity of plant uses among locals.
33) Tuberculosis:
Tuberculosis is a contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. The study references the use of specific plants for treating respiratory diseases, indicating the traditional methods employed to manage symptoms of this serious illness.
34) Vigna mungo:
Vigna mungo (black gram) is utilized in traditional diets and has health benefits. The inclusion in the survey displays the significance of not only medicinal properties but also nutritional aspects significant to local diets.
35) Snake-bite:
Snake-bite refers to the injury caused by a snake's fangs. Certain plants, like Gloriosa superba, are mentioned for treating snake bites, underlining the integration of local flora in managing life-threatening situations.
36) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to a systematic approach to studying phenomena based on observation and experimentation. The survey aims to provide a foundational understanding for scientific assessment of traditional medicines, bridging folklore with potential clinical applications.
37) Swelling:
Swelling is an accumulation of fluid in body tissues. Several plants, such as Aloe vera and Calotropis procera, are traditionally used to address swelling, emphasizing their importance in natural remedies within the local healthcare repertoire.
38) Nymphaea:
Nymphaea, commonly known as water lily, includes species known for their medicinal properties. The importance of plants from this genus can be traced back to their traditional uses in local healing practices.
39) Pulladi:
Pulladi is a local name associated with certain plants. Understanding local names enhances the ethnobotanical survey's context, emphasizing the significance of regional flora in traditional healing and local customs.
40) Nannari:
Nannari refers to Hemidesmus indicus, emphasized in local herbal practices for its blood-purifying properties. The survey's documentation highlights its relevance in traditional medicine for ailments like fevers and skin conditions.
41) Village:
Village refers to small rural communities. The survey documented medicinal practices specific to the village of Asikulam, reflecting how localized traditional knowledge directly contributes to the health and well-being of community members.
42) Arjuna:
Arjuna typically refers to Terminalia arjuna, a plant with significant cardiovascular medicinal properties. Documenting its use showcases the plant's role in traditional practices aimed at enhancing heart health in the local community.
43) Vaidya:
Vaidya refers to traditional healers or practitioners of Ayurveda. In the study, local Vaidyas are key informants providing valuable insights into the medicinal plants and their uses, underlining their importance in traditional medicine.
44) Cancer:
Cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. The ethnobotanical survey includes numerous plants traditionally used for managing health and symptoms associated with cancer, indicating their possible contributions to holistic care.
45) Kovai:
Kovai generally refers to the plant Coccinia grandis, commonly used in local cuisines and traditional medicine. Its documentation reinforces the interconnection between nutritional and medicinal plant uses in the region's culture.
46) Atti:
Atti, or Ficus racemosa, is valued in traditional medicine for its various uses, including its potential as an astringent. The plant's recognition in the survey emphasizes its cultural significance as part of local remedies.
47) Neem:
Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a versatile plant known for its medicinal properties, including antimicrobial effects. The survey highlights its widespread use in treating various ailments, demonstrating its importance in local health practices.
48) Tree:
Tree refers to a large plant, which is often a source of timber and medicinal resources. Many medicinal plants identified in the study are trees, emphasizing their ecological and economic importance to local communities.
49) Vetiveria zizanoides:
Vetiveria zizanoides, known for its aromatic roots, is traditionally used for its cooling properties and in treating skin conditions. Its documentation in the survey showcases the diversity of plant applications in traditional medicinal practices.
50) Terminalia chebula:
Terminalia chebula is a significant medicinal plant recognized for its health benefits, including rejuvenating properties. Its presence in the survey underscores the local reliance on traditional plants for health maintenance.
51) Cyperus rotundus:
Cyperus rotundus, commonly known as nutgrass, is acknowledged for its medicinal qualities, especially in treating digestive disorders. Its documentation illustrates the depth of traditional knowledge regarding plant applications.
52) Nelumbo nucifera:
Nelumbo nucifera, known as lotus, has medicinal properties and is often utilized in traditional remedies. Its presence in the survey reflects the cultural reverence and practical use of this plant in local health practices.
53) Argyreia nervosa:
Argyreia nervosa is recognized for its potential psychoactive properties and traditional medicinal uses. Its inclusion in the study reflects the diversity of local flora and the varying applications of indigenous knowledge.
54) Cynodon dactylon:
Cynodon dactylon, often referred to as Bermuda grass, is valued for its uses in folk medicine, particularly for digestive health. Its recognition underscores the role of common plants in traditional healing practices.
55) Musa paradisiaca:
Musa paradisiaca, or plantain, is utilized for its nutritional and potential medicinal benefits. Documenting its uses reflects the combination of dietary and medicinal roles that certain plants have in the local food culture.
56) Mangifera indica:
Mangifera indica, commonly known as mango, is appreciated for its nutritional value and health benefits. Its acknowledgment in the survey signifies the integration of dietary practices with medicinal uses among local populations.
57) Cucurbita maxima:
Cucurbita maxima (pumpkin) is noted for its nutritional and therapeutic values. Its documentation indicates the significance of commonly consumed plants in addressing health conditions within the local community.
58) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, known as holy basil or Tulsi, is revered in traditional medicine for its various health benefits, including respiratory care. Its inclusion represents the cultural and spiritual importance of plants within local healing practices.
59) Piper longum:
Piper longum, or long pepper, is recognized for enhancing digestive health and its use in traditional formulations. Its mention in the study illustrates the significance of spiced plants in regional medicinal practices.
60) Calophyllum inophyllum:
Calophyllum inophyllum is noted for its oil's medicinal properties, particularly in treating skin ailments. The plant's presence in traditional practices emphasizes the resourcefulness of local communities in using available flora.
61) Desmodium gangeticum:
Desmodium gangeticum is valued for its use in treating various ailments, including respiratory issues. Its incorporation in the survey highlights the broad application of local plants in traditional skincare and healing formulations.
62) Terminalia bellirica:
Terminalia bellirica is appreciated in traditional medicine for its health benefits, particularly as a digestive aid. Its inclusion indicates the ongoing relevance of these plants in local wellness practices.
63) Gossypium herbaceum:
Gossypium herbaceum, known as cotton, is recognized for its fiber as well as its medicinal properties. The plant’s usage signifies the intersection of agricultural practices with traditional medicinal applications.
64) Momordica charantia:
Momordica charantia, or bitter melon, is known for its antidiabetic properties. Its documentation in the survey illustrates local awareness of the health benefits of common vegetables as part of traditional practices.
65) Tribulus terrestris:
Tribulus terrestris, commonly known as puncture vine, is recognized for its potential health benefits, particularly in enhancing energy. Its inclusion in the survey demonstrates the significance of this plant in traditional practices among locals.
66) Ficus benghalensis:
Ficus benghalensis, or banyan tree, is highly regarded for its medicinal properties and cultural significance. Its mention in the survey reflects the importance of sacred trees in local traditions and medicinal practices.
67) Limonia acidissima:
Limonia acidissima, commonly known as wood apple, is used for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Its documentation showcases the rich array of traditional uses attributed to various local plants.
68) Plumbago zeylanica:
Plumbago zeylanica is noted for its medicinal effects, particularly in external applications. Its recognition in the survey underscores the diverse applications of local plants in traditional healthcare.
69) Benincasa hispida:
Benincasa hispida is acknowledged for its role in diets and potential health benefits. The plant represents the intertwining of nutrition and traditional medicinal practices within local cultures.
70) Nymphaea nouchali:
Nymphaea nouchali, known for its beauty and medicinal properties, is recognized for its use in local remedies. Its inclusion reflects the appreciation of aquatic plants in traditional healing practices.
71) Solanum melongena:
Solanum melongena, or eggplant, is appreciated for its culinary and nutritional value. Its mention in the survey emphasizes the importance of common vegetables in local diets and traditional medicine.
72) Cordia dichotoma:
Cordia dichotoma is valued for its medicinal and nutritional uses, such as in addressing digestive issues. Its presence in the study reflects the diversity of plant use in traditional practices and local agriculture.
73) Mahashivaratri (Mahasivaratri, Maha-Shivaratri):
Mahashiva-ratri refers to a significant Hindu festival celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva. The reverence for certain plants, such as Visnukiranthi, during rituals signifies the interplay between spirituality and medicinal plant use in local cultures.
74) Ficus religiosa:
Ficus religiosa, the sacred fig, is recognized for its spiritual significance and various health benefits. Its inclusion in the survey highlights the cultural beliefs intertwined with the utilization of plants within traditional medicine.
75) Mimusops elengi:
Mimusops elengi is valued for its medicinal properties, particularly in oral health. The plant’s documented uses illustrate the importance of local flora in addressing health issues within the community.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 158]