Indigenous Knowledge of Tribal Traditional Medicinal Plants: An Experimental Research

Abstract

Background: Many tribal communities are still using today traditional medicinal plants across the India. Our research paying attention on current use of such plants in different tribal communities’ in the Sundarban mangrove forest region. Methods: Twelve villages of four blocks (Gosaba, Basanti, Kultali, PatharPratima) and adjoining forest area are being selected for data collection regarding traditional medicinal plants during 2016-2019 covered roughly entire the seasons of the year. Information was obtained through respondents. A total 12 key informants has been chosen for interview and everyone is local tribal people and also herbalists. Result: Cuts & wounds, digestive disorders, diarrhea, dysentery, appetite & Blood pressure diseases etc. may be treated through the different medicinal plants. One particular variety was used for cuts & wounds; another for dysentery, 1 variety for Blood pressure diseases; 1 variety for stomach trouble; 1 variety for lower abdomen pain; 1 species for cough, and as tonic; and the rest of plants (3 species) are used for preparation of vitamins respectively. Conclusion: Sundarban is the mangrove forest biodiversity region. Various medicinal plants are being used by the local tribal people depending on their traditional knowledge. Although use of modern medicine is so fast with safety and faith, however, medicinal plants have potential values which are not properly explored. If these plants effectively used for various human disorder with scientific way, then scientific acceptance will increase. That is why the result of this study is justified for the benefit the entire society.