Ethnobotanical uses of Gymnosperms of Neelam valley and Muzaffarabad of Kashmir

Abstract

Present Ethnobotanical study was carried out during summer 2008 in spatial and temporal areas of Neelum valley and Muzaffarabad of Kashmir. Research revealed Ethnobotanical data that twelve Gymnosperm species are being employed in different ethnomedicines, food, fodder, shelter and other domestic purposes. A total of 65 people of both gender (age: 45-80 yrs) were interviewed using qustioaniaree, direct participant observation and demonstration technique method. A comprehensive Ethnobotanical profile of the plants comprised of: botanic names, vernacular names, family, distribution, occurrence, economic benefits, ethnomedicinal uses, preparation and administration modes. All information was compared with previous literature concurrently eliminating irrational reports and culminating this knowledge into plausible and applicable format. The inhabitants of the area used the plants for multi-purpose and have for a long time been dependent on surrounding plant resources for life subsistence. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Pinus roxburgii </i>Sarg<i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">., P. wallichiana </i>A. B. Jacks<i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">., Cedrus deodara </i>[(Roxb. ex Lamb.)G.Don],<i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"> Abies pindrow </i>[(Royle. Ex D.Don) Royle]<i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal"> and Taxus wallichiana </i>Zucc<i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">. </i>are prominent gymnosperms of Neelum valley and Muzaffarabad which are not only source of timber but also utilized as fuel wood and for medicinal purposes. Due to biotic an abiotic pressure different threats to the flora have been highlighted and suggestions for conservation of Gymnosperm taxa are formulated for implementations by relevant departments.