Ethnobotanical Study on the utilized of medicinal plants by the Phouthai Ethnic Group in Khammouan Province, Lao PDR

Abstract

Background: Plants have been a part of rural areas’ people's life from birth to die since prehistoric times and their utilization is an important traditional culture in the worldwide. However, this is a lack of ethnobotanical study in Laos. The aim of the study is to record the plants' species and explore their medical utilization in Nakeu village, Hinboon district, Khammouan province, middle part Laos. Methods: Ethnobotanical survey was conducted from August 2018 to July 2019. One hundred and fifty key information (81 males and 69 females). Ethnomedicinal data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key informants. Results: The total 79 plant species belong to 46 families were recorded as wild medicinal important. Life form importance value (LIV) was highest in tree 52%, followed by shrub 29%, liana 14%, grass 4%. The medicinal plants are used for stomach problems, heart disease, kidney problems, fever, and others, respectively. Used value (UV) was highest in Ocimum americanum (0.93). This knowledge will support primary health care providers and policymakers in decision-making on the utilization of medicinal plants. Conclusion: In Hinboon district, Khammouane province, Lao PDR, are some of the richest in species of medicinal plants in developing countries, and indeed in Asia. It is worth pointing out the exceptional long list of medicinal plants which are used for traditional medicine and documented as used in the treatment of different common sicknesses. Health policies have to promote the utilization of medicinal plants as part of a strategy to improve the basic health and livelihoods of rural communities throughout the country. Further exploration is needed on the bioactive compound and chemical factor contents of medicinal plants.