Ethnomedicinal plants of Sapi valley of Ladakh and its uses in Sowa-Rigpa System of medicine

Abstract

Sapi Valley, situated in the Kargil district of Ladakh within India's Trans-Himalayan region, is characterized by its harsh, cold, and arid climate. Despite these challenging conditions, the valley boasts a rich diversity of medicinal plants, many of which are integral to the traditional Sowa-Rigpa system of medicine. A comprehensive field study conducted from 2022 to 2024 documented 126 plant species across 39 botanical families in Sapi Valley. The vegetation predominantly comprises herbs (87%), followed by shrubs (11%) and trees (2%), a composition typical of alpine and above-tree-line ecosystems. Notably, 55 of these species are recognized for their medicinal applications within the Sowa-Rigpa tradition. The indigenous Boto and Balti Scheduled Tribes, primarily agrarian communities, heavily rely on these local plant resources for daily sustenance and healthcare needs. Traditional healers, known as Amchi, play a pivotal role in providing health services, utilizing their extensive knowledge of medicinal plants. However, the region faces increasing threats from climate change and human activities, leading to habitat degradation and a decline in plant populations. These challenges underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts and the systematic documentation of ethnomedicinal knowledge to preserve this invaluable heritage for future generations.