Ethnomedicinal uses of grasses in the Salt Range Region of Northern Pakistan.

Abstract

Salt Range Region of the country attracts the attention of researchers to explore its floral potential throughout the history. In this context the present study was confined to explore the medicinal potential of grasses in this range in order to propose protective measures for sustainable use of Salt Range grasses for coming generations. In total 62 grass species were collected and documented from the area. Out of these 10 species of grasses were found to link with livelihood for their medicinal uses. Ethnomedicinal data was collected through structured and semi structured interviews by using questionnaires. In total of 100 informants including 50 males and 50 females were approached to provide their precious indigenous knowledge related to ethnomedicinal uses of grasses. The study concludes that most of the inhabitants are unaware of medicinal potential of native grasses and they are deteriorating the habitat for firewood, livestock feeding and construction of roads and buildings. It is recommended that the indigenous communities should be trained to protect these grasses by using In situ strategies for long term sustainability. Key words: Ethnomedicinal uses, grasses, Salt Range, Northern Pakistan.