ETHNOBOTANICAL SURVEY OF MEDICINAL PLANTS PRACTICED BY THE RAI COMMUNITY OF DHARAN SUB-METROPOLITAN CITY, SUNSARI, NEPAL

Abstract

Ethnobotany is the study of local plants and their practical application in the treatment of various diseases. The Rai community is one of the oldest, most traditional and unique indigenous groups, living primarily in the mountainous regions of eastern Nepal. This study explores the rich traditions of ethnomedicine practice in Rai communities. Rai communities have long relied on traditional herbal remedies obtained from local plants for the treatment of various ailments. However, with the advancement and emergence of modern medicine, the use of traditional medicinal plants appears to be declining, requiring immediate action to preserve their ethnomedical heritage. This study was adopted as an interdisciplinary approach, combining ethnomedical research methods, interviews with local community members, village leaders, traditional health practitioners, and botanical surveys. It identified and documented ethnic medicinal plants practised in tribal communities. This study aims to identify promising medicinal plants that may aid in the development of new drugs, health care and new treatments. A total of 73 medicinal plants were identified during this study. Herbs were found to be the most used plant form and out of 73 plants, 17 species could cure respiratory disorders such as cough, asthma, cold, sore throat and pneumonia. Mostly, whole plant was used for treatment followed by leaf and roots of the plant. Plants were primarily utilized for mastication and juice out of all the recorded uses. These findings contribute to a greater understanding and appreciation of traditional treatments in Rai communities. As a result of the documentation and preservation of this knowledge, the Rai community will also benefit from royalties that will allow them continue to market and safeguard their therapeutic plant species. This research aims to raise awareness of traditional knowledge systems and their potential contributions to global health and well-being by emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and cultural considerations.