A study on the uses of medicinal plants in Phoubakchao and Laphupat Tera villages, Manipur, India

Abstract

The present investigation was carried in Phoubakchao and Laphupat Tera villages, Manipur with an objective of assessing the traditional knowledge of using medicinal plants by the elderly people of the village in treating different diseases or ailments. The study purposively selected 50 elderly persons (respondents) and interviewed by conducting household questionnaire survey to assess their traditional knowledge regarding uses of medicinal plants for treatment of certain diseases or ailments. Identification and correct nomenclature of species was done referring published literatures and websites. Fishing is the main occupation and high level of illiteracy (82%) was observed among respondents in the present investigation. The study resulted in the documentation of 52 species of medicinal plants belonging to 35 families and the parts like leaf, rhizome, fruit, seed, root and stem are used for treatment of 31 diseases or ailments. The most prevalent method of administration of medicinal preparation is boiling (40%) and drinking (60%) among the villagers. The elderly people of the village have got vast traditional knowledge in using medicin