PLANT SPECIES USED BY LOCALS AS ETHNO-MEDICINE IN KUMAUN REGION OF WESTERN HIMALAYA (INDIA)

ABSTRACT: The present investigation carried out in six villages of Almora district of Kumaun Himalaya regarding mild and native ethno-medicinal plants which were used by locals in their own traditional health care system. This study reveals the status of ethno-medicinal plants and their importance preserved by locals of Kumaun region. During the study it was observed that 47 species of medicinal plants belonging to 38 genera and 28 families were being used in ethno medicine by locals with advice of Vaidhyas and experienced persons of the region since long time. The main purpose of this study was to document the indigenous knowledge of Vaidhyas and other experienced persons of the area regarding the use of ethno-medicinal plants, their conservation and imparting this knowledge with younger generation. Because, the indigenous knowledge of local flora are being eroded in younger generation, therefore the present study may help in fulfill this gap respectively