Ethnobotanical studies on plant communities of Likhu Sub-watershed, Nepal and their indigenous uses

Abstract

116 species belonging to 66 families, used by the local people of the Likhu Sub-watershed, Nuwakot District, Nepal are reported based on a field survey. Local people have remarkable detailed knowledge of species identity, characteristics and their specific uses. At present, these traditional knowledges and practices are disappearing particularly due to unplanned land use change and over-explotation of the species. Some species (Berberis asiatica, Melia azederach, Nardostachys grandiflora, Zanthoxylum armatum) are under serious threat indicating urgent need of documentation and conservation of useful plant species with their uses and habitats.