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.
