Documentation of Traditional Knowledge and Folk Medicinal Uses of Plants in Eastern Uttar Pradesh: An Ethnobotanical Study

Abstract

In rural India, traditional knowledge about medicinal plants is a crucial part of primary healthcare. However, this important indigenous information is gradually disappearing due to increased urbanization, environmental degradation, and changing lifestyles. In order to record traditional knowledge and folk medicinal uses of plants used by local communities and traditional healers, the current ethnobotanical study was carried out in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, and direct observations were used to conduct field surveys in a few chosen communities. Local plant names, plant parts used, preparation techniques, modalities of administration, and illnesses treated were all noted. 90 species of therapeutic plants from 48 families were identified. The most common living form was herbs, which were followed by climbers, trees, and shrubs. The most commonly used plant portion was the leaf, and the most popular preparation methods were pastes and decoctions. The reported species were mostly utilized to treat wounds, musculoskeletal conditions, respiratory infections, fever, skin conditions, diabetes, and gastrointestinal illnesses. The study emphasizes how crucial it is to maintain traditional ethnomedical knowledge and the diversity of medicinal plants for both future pharmacological research and sustainable healthcare.