Ecological studies of medicinal plants in Siddheshwar Grove, Maharashtra

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Ecological studies of some medicinal plant species from siddheshwar sacred grove of parner, ahmednagar maharastra, india
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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Original source:

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Author:

Thete A. M., Narra Haribabu and P. P. Sharma


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Ecological studies of some medicinal plant species from siddheshwar sacred grove of parner, ahmednagar maharastra, india

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

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20181-10506


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study conducted by Thete et al. focuses on the ecological characteristics of medicinal plant species found in the Siddheshwar sacred grove located in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, India. Sacred groves are areas with dense biodiversity, traditionally protected by local communities or tribal groups due to their spiritual and cultural significance. The research emphasizes the importance of these groves in preserving regional biodiversity and providing medicinal resources to local populations, often based on indigenous knowledge passed down through generations.

Quadrate Methodology in Ecological Studies

One of the critical methodologies employed in this research is the Quadrate method, which allows for systematic sampling and assessment of the vegetation in the sacred grove. The total area of the grove was divided into randomized quadrates of varying sizes: 100m x 100m for trees and shrubs, and 1m x 1m for herbaceous species. This method enabled researchers to collect data on the number of individual plant species within each quadrate, facilitating the calculation of analytical characters such as frequency, density, and abundance. These metrics are vital for understanding the ecological status and distribution patterns of the medicinal plants.

Analytical Characterization of Plant Distribution

The analytical characters used in the study, including frequency, density, and abundance, offer insight into the relative and absolute presence of various plant species within the grove. Frequency refers to the percentage of quadrates in which a species was observed, density reflects the total number of individuals of a species per quadrate, and abundance provides a relative measure based on the number of individuals in quadrates where the species occurred. These measurements contribute to a comprehensive analysis of the community structure and help identify dominant species, which are crucial for conservation efforts.

Raunkiaer’s Frequency Classes

The authors also applied Raunkiaer’s frequency classes to assess the plant species’ distribution further. This classification system categorizes species based on their frequency percentage into five classes: A (0-20%), B (21-40%), C (41-60%), D (61-80%), and E (81-100%). The results indicated a heterogeneous vegetation structure within the sacred grove, with species frequency primarily falling into the classes A and E. This distribution pattern underscores the rich diversity of plant species and highlights the preservation of various medicinal plants, some of which are threatened by environmental changes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ecological study of Siddheshwar sacred grove reveals significant insights into the medicinal plant species present in the area. By employing the Quadrate method and analytical metrics, the research successfully identifies key species and their ecological roles. The findings emphasize the importance of sacred groves in maintaining local biodiversity and highlight the necessity for ongoing conservation efforts to protect these invaluable natural resources. The authors express their gratitude to the academic institutions involved, which facilitated this vital research.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the purpose of the ecological study in Siddheshwar sacred grove?

The study aims to understand the ecological vegetation, focusing on 40 medicinal plant species while analyzing their frequency, density, and abundance in the sacred grove.

How was data collected in the ecological study?

Data was collected using the quadrate method, with 100m x 100m quadrates for trees and shrubs, and 1m x 1m quadrates for herbaceous species, during the rainy season.

What significance do sacred groves hold for local communities?

Sacred groves are biodiversity sites that provide essential natural resources and medicinal plants, reflecting local communities' cultural respect and indigenous knowledge of plant use.

What analytical characters were used in the study?

Frequency, density, and abundance of plant species were calculated using specific formulas to analyze their presence and dominance within the ecological community.

How are species categorized based on frequency?

Species are classified into five classes (A to E) based on their frequency percentage using Raunkiaer’s classification system, which indicates their prevalence in the grove.

What findings were revealed through the ecological study?

The study concluded that the medicinal plant species in the sacred grove displayed a heterogeneous distribution, with several frequently occurring and dominant species present.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ecological studies of medicinal plants in Siddheshwar Grove, Maharashtra”. 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) Species:
Species refers to a group of organisms that share common characteristics and can reproduce with one another. In the context of the study, 40 medicinal plant species were identified in the Siddheshwar sacred grove, emphasizing the biodiversity present and the importance of these plants in traditional medicine among local communities.

2) Grove:
Groves are clusters of trees and vegetation that may hold ecological and cultural significance. The concept of sacred groves, such as Siddheshwar, indicates areas preserved by local communities for spiritual reasons while serving as vital habitats for diverse plant species, showcasing the intersection of culture and ecology.

3) Study (Studying):
Studying involves systematic examination or research of a particular subject. In this context, studying the medicinal plants in the sacred grove is essential for gathering data on their ecological importance, uses, and potential contributions to local and traditional medicine.

4) Ahmednagar:
Ahmednagar is a district in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The ecological study takes place in this region, highlighting its unique botanical diversity. Understanding the flora of Ahmednagar is crucial for promoting local medicinal practices and preserving the ecological heritage found within the sacred groves of the area.

5) Table:
In scientific research, a table organizes data in an easily readable format. The tables in the document present observations of plant species, including their density, abundance, and frequency. This allows for comparative analysis and enhances understanding of the ecological dynamics within the sacred grove.

6) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the information and awareness gained through study or experience. In the context of this research, it reflects the indigenous understanding of local medicinal plants by tribal communities. This traditional knowledge is invaluable for illustrating the cultural significance and practical applications of plant species found in the grove.

7) Disease:
A disease represents a specific pathological condition affecting organisms. The study identifies medicinal plants used to treat diverse diseases among the local community. By examining these plants, researchers can explore their therapeutic potential, contributing to the knowledge of both traditional and modern medical applications.

8) Science (Scientific):
Science is a systematic approach to understanding the natural world through observation and experimentation. In this study, ecological and botanical sciences are applied to assess the plant species within the sacred grove, contributing to biodiversity conservation and local traditional medicine discussions.

9) Nature:
Nature embodies the physical world and its inherent systems, including ecosystems and biodiversity. The study emphasizes the natural significance of the Siddheshwar sacred grove, underlining the need to preserve these ecosystems for their ecological functions and the traditional practices of local communities that depend on them.

10) Dhule:
Dhule is a city and district in Maharashtra, India, near the study site of the Siddheshwar sacred grove. It emphasizes the geographical context of the ecological study, linking local traditions and plant use in medicine to a broader understanding of regional biodiversity within Maharashtra.

11) Tree:
A tree refers to a single tall plant with a trunk. The identification of tree species within the sacred grove is essential for understanding the ecological dynamics and their relevance to local medicinal practices. Each tree species contributes to the overall biodiversity of the grove.

12) Tinospora cordifolia:
Tinospora cordifolia is a climbing shrub valued in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties, particularly in treatments for fever and inflammatory conditions. Identifying this species highlights the grove's importance as a reservoir of useful plants and supports deeper investigations into its therapeutic applications.

13) Azadirachta indica:
Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, is a highly regarded medicinal plant with a wide array of therapeutic properties. Its presence in the sacred grove underscores the grove's significance as a source of traditional medicine and its potential contribution to modern pharmacology.

14) Cynodon dactylon:
Cynodon dactylon, often known as Bermuda grass, is widely utilized for its medicinal and practical applications. Its discovery in the sacred grove enhances the understanding of local plant usages and their ecological roles, particularly in soil conservation and as a traditional remedy.

15) Santalum album:
Santalum album, or sandalwood, is a tree renowned for its aromatic heartwood and essential oil. The presence of this species in the study emphasizes its economic and cultural importance, providing insight into the local community's reliance on natural resources for medicinal and ceremonial purposes.

16) Terminalia bellirica:
Terminalia bellirica, commonly known as baheda, is valued in traditional medicine for its health benefits, including digestive health. Its inclusion in the study illustrates the medicinal richness of the grove and the continued reliance on indigenous plants for health and wellness.

17) Gloriosa superba:
Gloriosa superba is a climbing plant noted for its medicinal properties, particularly in traditional healing practices. The identification of this species in the grove indicates the variety of medicinal resources available, reflecting its cultural significance within the local herbal practices.

18) Gmelina arborea:
Gmelina arborea, or gamari, is valued for its timber and medicinal properties. Its occurrence in the sacred grove points to the diverse uses of vegetation in the region, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity conservation for sustaining economic and health resources.

19) Observation:
Observation refers to the act of closely monitoring and documenting species and ecological data. In this study, observations are crucial for analyzing plant species, their distribution, and ecological interactions, providing meaningful insights into the biodiversity and ecological health of the sacred grove.

20) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is a state in western India, known for its rich flora and ecological diversity. The research conducted in Maharashtra emphasizes the need to protect and understand sacred groves, which are essential for local biodiversity and the cultural practices of its diverse communities.

21) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses substances and practices used for healing and health maintenance. This study explores the traditional medicinal uses of various plant species found in the sacred grove, detailing how local communities utilize natural resources for healthcare, which is vital for cultural preservation.

22) Relative:
Relative refers to the relationship or comparison between two or more entities. In ecology, understanding the relative abundance and distribution of plant species in the sacred grove helps to assess biodiversity and the ecological value of specific species within the community.

23) Pradhan:
Pradhan refers to a person or entity, in this context likely the author or researcher involved in identifying the flora of the region. Their contributions, along with the methodologies cited, are integral to the scientific rigor and depth of knowledge presented in the ecological study.

24) Habitat:
Habitat denotes the natural environment where a species lives and interacts. The study of the sacred grove emphasizes the importance of preserving habitats for medicinal plants, ensuring their survival and the perpetuation of indigenous knowledge among local communities.

25) Forest:
A forest is a large area dominated by trees and undergrowth. The sacred grove represents a smaller but ecologically important forest that contributes to biodiversity. Preserving such areas is vital for supporting a rich array of plant species and maintaining ecological balance.

26) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is likely a co-author of the study, contributing expertise in the field of botany. Their participation reflects collaborative efforts in researching plant biodiversity and the application of traditional knowledge in ecological preservation and medicinal plant studies.

27) Botany:
Botany is the scientific study of plants, encompassing their structure, properties, and processes. This research falls under the realm of botany as it examines the medicinal plant species within the sacred grove, highlighting their ecological significance and traditional uses in local health practices.

28) India:
India is a country rich in biodiversity and traditional ecological knowledge. The context of this study is set within India, where sacred groves like Siddheshwar play a critical role in preserving both plant diversity and the cultural practices tied to medicinal plant usage.

29) Shri (Sri, Sr):
Shri is a title of respect often used in Indian contexts; here, it serves to honor 'Shri Muktanand College,' where part of the research took place. This identification connects the investigation to institutions involved in promoting environmental and botanical studies in local communities.

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