Diversity, Distribution and Indigenous uses of Medicinal Plants of Nirmand Block in Seraj Valley, Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

The Indian Himalayan Region is one of the richest reservoirs of biological diversity in the world and is considered as a store house of the valuable medicinal plants. In the remote areas of Indian Himalaya, the inhabitants are largely dependent on plants for curing various diseases/ailments. But, due to urbanization and modernization, the indigenous knowledge and traditional practices of medicinal plants are vanishing fast. The Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh is one of the twelve districts, and is a veritable emporium of herbal plants and consists of five blocks (Kullu, Anni, Banjar, Naggar and Nirmand). Nirmand Block (31o25’28"N and 77o34’36"E) covers an area of 77.45 km2. The medicinal plants wealth of Nirmand valley has not been explored so far. Therefore, an attempt has been made to; (i) assess the medicinal plants diversity; (ii) document indigenous uses and practices; (iii) analyze for nativity and endemism; and (iv) suggest strategy for the conservation and management of the species. The present study recorded first hand information on 41 species of medicinal plants belonging to 39 genera and 29 families from the Nirmand Block. The recorded species represent trees (06 spp.), shrubs (06 spp.) and herbs (29 spp.). Different parts of these species, such as whole plants, roots, leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, stems, barks, etc. were used by the inhabitants for curing various diseases. Twenty seven (27) species were natives and 14 species non-natives to the Himalayan region. Due to changing environmental conditions and habitat degradation, the populations of many species are depleting fast. Therefore, studies on habitat ecology, development of conventional and in-vitro propagation protocols and introduction in cultivation and natural habitats are suggested.