Ethnomedicinal survey of some wetland plants of South Orissa and their conservation

Abstract

Results of an ethnomedicinal survey of wetlands of Eastern Ghat region of Orissa are presented. Data and specimens were collected during 2005-2008 of field study. Field study consisted of plant collection and interview with the local traditional healers. The result revealed that 48 wetland plants under 40 genera and 23 families were under use by the local inhabitants against 47 different ailments. The communication reports for the first time 29 taxa with new medicinal uses. The survival of these native wetland species is threatened and hence attention on the wetland resources especially those having economic value is warranted.