Ethno-gynaecological practices and traditional medicinal plants utilization among indigenous communities of the Lakshadweep Islands, India

Abstract

Ethno-gynaecology is a burgeoning field of study that emphasizes how indigenous people, and local healers manage gynaecological conditions among women. The goal of the current study was to record in-depth information about Ethno-gynaecology in Lakshadweep. The present study was conducted between 2016 and 2024 across all ten inhabited islands. The people from the age group 40-60 and above are the stakeholders of the ethnic plant medicines. The present study identified eighteen plant species belongs to eight families are used for the treatment of various gynaecological disorders. The most frequently used plant parts for herbal preparations were leaves followed by roots, whole plant, fruit, seed, stem and rhizome. The ethno-gynaecological importance of medicinal plants in India offers significant potential for scientific exploration. Further research is needed to evaluate their efficacy, isolate bioactive compounds and develop medications to address prevalent gynaecological health issues affecting women globally