Some therapeutic uses of biodiversity among the tribals of Rajasthan

Abstract

Extensive ethnomedicinal survey was carried out to document the precious indigenous healthcare practices prevalent among the different ethnic groups of Rajasthan. These people belonging to primitive or aboriginal culture possess a good deal of information about medicinal utility of biodiversity. During the survey, it was noted that plant parts, animals and substances of animal origin are commonly used by the tribals to cure various diseases and disorders. Indigenous healthcare practices, provide low cost alternatives, where western healthcare services are not available or are too expensive. Analysis of data based on 72 remedies indicates that 57 remedies are based on 45 different plant species belonging to 29 families and 15 remedies are based on several substances of animal origin. A list of plant/animal species along with their part/s used and the mode of administration for effective control in different ailments are given.