Ethnomedicinal Plant Use by the Lepcha Tribe of Dzongu Valley, North Sikkim, India
Author Information
Author(s): Pradhan Bharat K, Badola Hemant K
Primary Institution: Conservation of Biodiversity Core Group, G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment & Development, Sikkim Unit
Hypothesis
The study aims to document the ethnomedicinal practices of the Lepcha tribe in Dzongu valley amidst cultural and economic changes.
Conclusion
The study documented 118 medicinal plant species used by the Lepcha tribe to cure approximately 66 ailments, highlighting the rich ethnomedicinal knowledge of this community.
Supporting Evidence
- The study identified 118 species of medicinal plants used by the Lepcha tribe.
- Zingiberaceae was the most used family with 8 species.
- 30.50% of the species were used to treat stomach-related disorders.
- 75% of the medicinal preparations were administered orally.
- Destructive harvesting was noted for 29% of the species.
Takeaway
The Lepcha tribe uses many plants to help with sickness, and they know a lot about how to use these plants for medicine.
Methodology
Field surveys were conducted to gather information on the indigenous uses of plant species as medicine by interviewing local informants.
Potential Biases
The reliance on a limited number of informants may introduce bias in the documented practices.
Limitations
The study faced challenges in obtaining information due to the non-sharing attitude of local healers and language barriers.
Participant Demographics
125 informants (95 males and 30 females), including local healers and community members.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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