Ethnobotanical Importance Research Articles

Diversity and Ethnobotany of genus Garcinia L. (Clusiaceae) in Assam, Eastern Himalaya

The genus Garcinia is an important component of the flora of Assam and is well known for being used traditionally in many different ways. To preserve this knowledge, this study recorded the ethnobotanical importance of the genus Garcinia in this region. The study revealed that there are 12 species and one variety of the genus indigenous to Assam.Methods: This study was conducted in different parts of Assam, Northeast India based on extensive field work involving collection and documentation of members of genus Garcinia. Important characteristic features of the specimens like colour of leaf and stem, branching pattern of the stems, habit, habitat, size, etc. were noted down in the field during collection. Ethnobotanical data were collected by interviewing local communities through a semi-structured questionnaire, interview and literature review.Results: In present communication, we provide ethnobotanical and botanical descriptions and illustrations of 12 Garcinia species that are popularly used among ethnic communities of Assam for fruits, medicines and fixative or as a mordant for saffron dye. These species consist of G. anomala Planch. & Triana., G. assamica J. Sarma, Shameer & N. Mohanan, G. cowa Roxb. Ex Choisy, G. dulcis (Roxb.) Kurz, G. indica (Thouars) Choisy, G. kydia Roxb., G. lanceifolia Roxb., G. morella (Gaertn.) Desr., G. paniculata Roxb. ex Wight, G. pedunculata Roxb. Ex Buch-Ham., G. nervosa Miq. And G. xanthocymus Hook.f. ex T.Anderson.Conclusions: This study concludes that documentation and preservation of traditional knowledge associated with Garcinia could generate further research activities for the benefit of human kind. The traditional utilization of Garcinia members observed are most prevalent amongst the rural communities of the studied area. It is also a fact that in spite of having ample economic potential, the species of the genus Garcinia occurring in Assam and also in northeast India has not been studied properly.

Analytical Profiling of Phenolic Compounds in Extracts of Three Cistus Species from Sardinia and Their Potential Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity.

The Cistaceae family is well represented in Sardinia, and the Cistus genus is widely used in traditional medicine. Nowadays only few studies have been performed on this genus vegetating in Sardinia in spite of its ethnobotanical importance. Moreover, in the past there have been conflicting opinions among botanists for the exact assignment of the species growing in Sardinia. We started several years ago to carried out studies on this genus and in the present study was to evaluate the in vitro activity of several samples of Cistus salvifolius L., Cistus monspeliensis L., and Cistus albidus L. collected in Sardinia as antimicrobial agents against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and four Candida species and their antioxidant activity using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Furthermore, the phenolic content and composition of the extracts were first evaluated. Using statistical multivariate analysis on the complete metabolomics profile of all Cistus species growing wild in Sardinia, we confirmed the botanical classification, and we observed an interesting correlation between metabolomics profile and antioxidant activity.

An ecological study of the fern Asplenium Trichomanes L. in Iraq with a reference to its phytochemical and antioxidant activity

A number of ferns are known to have ornamental, medicinal and ethnobotanical importance all over the world. In spite of the presence of numerous fern species such as Equisetum, Adiantum, Asplenium and Cheilanthes species all over our country (Iraq) particularly the Kurdistan part, still, such information in this area is quite rare. Asplenium Trichomonas L. is a genus of one of the widest groups of Asplenideae (maidenhair spleen worts). It is a megaphyllous, homosporous fern, which was found at an elevation above 1600 m.a.s.l. Samples were collected from the Taweela area in Kurdistan of Iraq, the phytochemical and antioxidant activity of the plant was dealt with in the current investigation through the methanol extract method of ferns. The result revealed positive detection of few numbers of flavonoid compounds, among which kaempferol compound showed the highest concentration (227 μg/ml) whereas kaempferide 3-0 glycoside showed the lowest concentration (130.3 μg/ ml), six phenolic compounds were identified through HPLC technique among which (Kaempferol, Quercetin, Myrstin, Rutin, Kea.3-o-glycoside, and Leutolin), also anti-oxidant activity recorded (1c50) it had exceeded (2.27 μg/m1). In contrast the positive control (Ascorbic acid) 0.018 mg/ ml. The present study has been devoted to the distribution of Asplenium Trichomanes L in Iraq with reference to it is a phytochemical and anti-oxidant activity for the first time in the region. In years to come, undoubtedly this will follow with more investigations on fern wealth in Iraq so it will reduce the existing gap in the knowledge in this respect.

Study of ethno-botanical shrub and its utilization in Agra district Uttar Pradesh

India has been known as a rich source for valuable medicinal Shrubs. These Shrubs are found and distributed in throughout India and various parts of world. Since the ancient time, Shrub species have been used as the source of botanical medicine by the human beings. Shrubs are the richest source of medicine due to the presence of biochemical, which are useful to cure the various diseases. Usefulness of medicinal Shrubs is well documented since the time immemorial. The present study includes ethno-botanical importance in which vegetative parts of Shrubs which is commonly used by different local community. Ethno-botanical density as well as diversity may variable region to region and habitats to habitats. Keeping this in view an extensive survey work was carried out in Agra (Western part) of Uttar Pradesh state of India, for the medicinal Shrubs resources of Agra, Uttar Pradesh to obtain info about the traditional uses, knowledge of local people and traditional healers about these popular shrubs. Based on the results obtained, it was concluded that find 21 species is a useful medicinal used to treat different human and livestock ailments. Their body parts are using for curing different types of serious diseases such as tuberculosis, leprosy, asthma, piles, dengue fever, typhoid fever, blood bleeding etc. in human beings, domestic animals and other wild animals. Present paper advocated to local peoples (especially of rural areas), for protection of these Shrubs and secure their life for better survival.

In-depth pharmacological and nutritional properties of bael (Aegle marmelos): A critical review

Aegle marmelos or bael has been known from prehistoric times in India with mythological importance. Each part of the tree like root, bark, fruit, leaf, and flower has therapeutic significance in Ayurvedic as well as other traditional medicinal systems in treating ailments. Modern researches have successfully supported the pharmacological action of bael by discovering the presence of valuable bioactive compounds. Studies have revealed the anti-oxidant, anti-microbial nature of bael which aids in inhibiting gastrointestinal problems, different cardiac issues. Hepatoprotective, radioprotective, anti-diabetic, wound healing activities are also unveiled by bael. The aim of the present research work is to study the ethno-botanical importance of each part of the tree, nutritional and phytochemical profiling, preservation techniques of the fruit, and medicinal actions of it. • Ethnobotanical description of bael (Aegle marmelos). • Nutritional profile and food products can be derived from bael. • Thorough literature survey associated with nutritional and medicinal aspects of different portions of bael. • In-vitro and in-vivo pharmacological potency of different parts of bael.

Antimicrobial activity of Ficus exasperata (Vahl) leaf extract in clinical isolates and its development into herbal tablet dosage form

Background: Ficus exasperata (Vahl) from the family Moraceae is a herb of ethnobotanical importance with antimicrobial properties. The past studies have been on the phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of the plant, but there is a need to formulate this valuable herb into tablet dosage form to offer standardisation. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the antimicrobial activity of F. exasperata leaf extract (extract) and formulate it into herbal tablet dosage form. Setting: The experiments were performed at the laboratories of the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria. Methods: The extract was obtained by maceration and assessed for antimicrobial activity using agar cup diffusion method. Tablets were prepared by direct compression using Avicel ® , Lactose and Emcompress ® at a drug–diluent ratio of 1:4 and 1:9. The flow properties of the powder mixtures were determined using compressibility index, Hausner’s ratio, angle of repose and density measurements. The mechanical properties of the tablets were assessed using crushing strength (CS), friability (FR) and the crushing strength–friability ratio (CSFR) and release properties with disintegration times (DT), disintegration efficiency ratio and dissolution times. Analyses were carried out using two-way analysis of variance on Prism 5.0. Results: The results showed that the extract had concentration-dependent antimicrobial activity. The flow properties of the powder mixtures were in the rank order of Avicel ® > Lactose > Emcompress ® . Tablet CS and CSFR increased, whilst FR decreased with increase in compression force and diluent concentration. All tablets passed the DT test. The ranking of dissolution times was Avicel ® < Lactose < Emcompress ® < no diluent. Conclusion: Ficus exasperata extract demonstrated antimicrobial properties dependent on type of organism and extract concentration. The herbal tablets have acceptable mechanical and release parameters, which varied with diluent type, drug–diluent ratio and compression pressure.

Morphological, ethnobotanical, Pharmacognostical and pharmacological studies on the medicinal plant Plumeria alba linn. (apocynaceae)

Plants have varieties of compounds like glycosides, alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, which possess important diverse pharmacological activities to alleviate various diseases and disorders. Plants are vital source of drugs from the ancient time asset the scenario of the Indian system of medicine. The medicinal value of Plumeria species in the treatment of various human ailments is mentioned in Ayurveda, Charaka Samhita, and Sushrita Samhita. This alternative system of medicine is gaining increasing popularity worldwide. Plumeria alba Linn. (Apocynaceae) is an important shrub and widely used in perfumery and used in different traditional systems of medicine in the treatment of various diseases. The plant is mainly grown for its ornamental and fragrant flowers. This paper enumerates the pharmacognostical, morphological and ethnobotanical importance of the P. alba , which may help the researchers to set their minds for approaching the usefulness, efficacy and potency. The P. alba is small laticiferous tree or shrub is a native of tropical America, commonly known as White Champa. Leaves arrangement is lanceolate to oblanceolate with white flowers, fragrant in corymbose fascicles and fruit is edible. Leaves and stem were tested for its phytoconstituents, which are used in several traditional medicines to cure various diseases like purgative, cardiotonic, diuretic, and hypotensive. Their medicinal actions are often due to their latex which is commonly drastic and corrosive. Latex is applied to ulcers, herpes, and scabies. Seeds possess hemostatic actions and bark is bruised and applied as plaster over hard tumors.

Diversity and Ethnobotanical Importance of Pine Species from Sub-Tropical Forests, Azad Jammu and Kashmir

A general investigation of sub-tropical forests, from Pir Chinasi National Park, Tolipir National Park, Dhirkot Nature Reserve and Banjosa Game Reserve was carried out during different months from February 2008 to May 2010. The relative abundance of species was calculated using line transects of 50m. A total of five different species (Abies pindrow. Cedrus deodara, Pinus wallichiana, Pinus roxburgii and Picea smithiana) from the Pinaceae family were recorded. The main reported use of Cedrus deodara and Pinus wallichiana by the local people was for furniture and construction purposes. Pinus wallichiana was observed as the dominant species from all the selected sites.

Folklore Practices of Medicinal Plants by the Local Community in Ukhimath Forest Area of Rudraprayag District, Uttarakhand, India

Aim: Intent of this article is to describe the acclaimed use of medicinal plants by the people, including folklores of the Ukhimath Forest area of Rudraprayag district in Uttarakhand Himalayan region, analyze their relative importance, and validation of their knowledge with Ayurvedic classics. Materials and methods: The survey of the Ukhimath forest area of Rudraprayag district in Uttarakhand Himalayan region was conducted during June 2017 with a view to study medicinal trees and their ethnobotanical and medicinal importance. The information was collected with the help of semi-structured questionnaire from the local people. Results: Interview of a total of seven informants with an age range of 19–54 years comprising one female and six males were conducted in the study area. Total 21 medicinal plant species are reported for the management of 18 different afflictions. Conclusion: Most of the plant species used are known in the Ayurveda literature indicated for same illnesses as the folklores are using. Endeavors are required to moderate and ensure this traditional knowledge that will be supportive for the researcher and pharmaceutical industries to discover other uses of plant for the beneficence of healthcare system. Clinical significance: Folk claims reported in the study show reasonable conformity with Ayurvedic text regarding their medicinal use.

Analysis of Traditional Knowledge of Medicinal Plants from Residents Near Kalikasan Park, Albay, Philippines

The study was conducted to document the traditional knowledge and utilization of medicinal plants from the locals residing near Kalikasan Park, Albay, Philippines. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires and informal interviews. The survey was participated by 24 informants, 50% of which had secondary education and 42% are aged 50 years old and above. The ethnobotanical importance of the surveyed plants was quantitatively analyzed in terms of 3 parameters: frequency (F), specificity (S), and reliability (R) in the citation of plant species used for specific ailments. A total of 21 plants from 17 families were surveyed to treat the 16 ailments having a cold and cough as the most cited. The leaves were the commonly used part of the plant, the decoction was the usual mode of preparation, and treatment was usually administered by drinking the herbal infusion (as tea). Of all the cited medicinal plants, 3 species consistently obtained 100% values in F, S and R namely: Lagerstroemia speciosa Linn. (banaba), Piper betle Linn. (buyo), and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. (lukban) as a treatment for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), muscle pain and insomnia, respectively. A 100% specificity was recorded in 9 species namely, Persea americana Mill. (abukado) for diabetes; L. speciosa against UTI; P. betle for muscle pain; Kaempferia galangal Linn. (dosol) for inflammation; Psidium guajava Linn. (bayawas) for wound; Clerodendrum intermedium Cham. (matang-kuwaw) for cold; C. maxima for insomnia; Gendarussa vulgaris Nees (puli) for inflammation; and Cymbopogon citratus (DC. ex Nees) Stapf. (tanglad) against diabetes. There is a wealth of information on medicinal plant and their applications available from Kalikasan Park communities. The study’s results may provide useful information for pharmacological studies and sustainable conservation of Kalikasan Park’s natural plant ecosystem.

Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of Congea tomentosa, an ethnomedicinal plant from Bangladesh

Congea tomentosa Roxb. (CT) is used as a medicinal plant by indigenous peoples of Bangladesh, but to date remains largely unexplored from a phytochemical or pharmacological perspective. In this study, the extracts of leaves, stems and flowers of CT were tested for antimicrobial activity using the agar well diffusion and micro-dilution methods. Compared with leaf and flower extracts, the crude stem extract was the most effective against the tested microorganisms. Therefore, the crude stem extract was further subjected to sequential fractionation, with the petroleum ether and ethyl acetate extracts proving the most active against tested microorganisms. Using GC–MS analysis, 10 compounds were identified within the petroleum ether extract, all of which are known to the literature, and some/all of which may have contributed to the observed antimicrobial properties. Additionally, two compounds (β-amyrin and stigmasterol) were isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction and identified using mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. Compound 2 (stigmasterol) displayed promising antimicrobial activity against tested microorganisms. Despite the ethnobotanical importance of CT, this work represents the first scientific report supporting its traditional use, and demonstrates that both the stem extract of this ethnomedicinal plant and the isolated compound 2 (stigmasterol) may offer potential as antimicrobials.

Alien Plants in the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa: Perceptions of Their Contributions to Livelihoods of Local Communities

Invasive alien plant species are plant species that establish themselves outside their native distributional range. The current study documented utilization of alien plant species in the Eastern Cape province in South Africa. Information about utilization of alien plant species was gathered through interviews conducted with 120 participants, which included 13 traditional healers, 27 herbalists, ten farmers and 70 laypeople. Ethnobotanical importance of documented species was assessed through evaluation of use value (UV), fidelity level (FL) and relative frequency citation (RFC). A third of the participants (33.3%) perceived alien plant species as undesirable, while 71.1% of the participants argued that alien plant species had beneficial effects. A total of 26 alien plant species were recorded, seven species being fruit trees, followed by ornamental plants (five species), fodder and herbal medicines (four species each), construction materials, erosion control and vegetables (two species each). The popular alien plant species with UV &gt; 0.1, RFC &gt; 0.4 and FL &gt; 4.0% included Amaranthus spinosus, Cannabis sativa, Cereus jamaracu, Harrisia balansae, Opuntia engelmannii, Opuntia ficus-indica, Opuntia monocantha and Prunus persica. Information on perceptions of local communities in the Eastern Cape province on the contributions of alien plant species to livelihood needs is an important stage of initiating a management protocol that incorporates public perceptions and values associated with alien plant species.

Ethnobotany, rattan agroforestry, and conservation of ecosystem services in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia

Rattan agroforestry is an important land use system in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, providing a wide range of products for subsistence communities. The ethnobotanical importance of rattan includes heritage values reflecting traditional ecological knowledge. This traditional forestry practice is consistent with necessary conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services currently threatened by expansion of oil palm plantations. We examined species composition and morphology (including life stages) of vegetation associated with rattan agroforests in the Katingan district, Central Kalimantan. An examination of harvested rattan plots revealed 101 species of vegetation of which 90% are considered to be useful (food, construction materials, medicines) and most (97%) were native species, typical of lowland tropical forest vegetation. Vegetation in the rattan agroforests was dominated by trees (in terms of species richness). There were 80 species of trees, representing 79% of the plants surveyed. Vitex pubescens (kaluan) had the highest importance value as it occupied more space, was represented by more individuals and was most frequently found in rattan gardens. These trees in general have a relatively open canopy with strong branches; properties considered ideal to support rattan. Canopy forming species are actively managed to provide for growth of useful understory vegetation (including rattan) important in the livelihoods of village communities. Rattan agroforests also provide cultural services reflecting traditional use (e.g. a sense of belonging and ancestral linkages for local forest-dependent communities). The importance of ethnobotanical approaches to rattan cultivation includes the socio-economic evaluation of land use and the promotion of sustainable land use policies in Indonesia. This is important in the context of oil palm expansion which has a demonstrably adverse impact on ecosystem services.

Diversity, distribution and ethnobotanical importance of cultivated and wild African trifoliate yam [Dioscorea dumetorum (Kunth) Pax] in Benin

Dioscorea dumetorum is an important native tuber crop commonly grown in West Africa. The present study aimed to document the indigenous knowledge related to its diversity and distribution as well its ethnobotanical importance in the production areas in Benin. In total, 555 farmers belonging to 18 socio-linguistic groups were surveyed in 78 villages covering the major production areas in the country. The study revealed that local farmers have developed important knowledge on the production and uses of this tuber crop. Twenty-five farmer-named landraces, further grouped into 3 major morphotypes, were globally recorded. Their extent and distribution varied significantly, with in general the southern and central agro-ecologies holding the largest cultivar diversity while the northern agro-ecologies being less diversified. The pure yellow cultivars were the most popular morphotype. The seed management system remained traditional. Farmers’ preference criteria in selecting cultivars relied essentially on plant attributes and environment stress adaptations. The crop is grown mainly for food and trading purposes while it is also used in traditional medicine and magico-mystic rituals. Along with agro-ecological parameter, the results revealed that the socio-cultural factors such as the ethnic group and the age of farmers had significant impact the overall use value of D. dumetorum. Wild morphotypes of D. dumetorum were recognized and also exploited in ethnomedicine by farmers. Although well appreciated by the farmers, the potential of the crop was less exploited. Concerted efforts are needed to preserve and valorize its genetic resources to combat food insecurity and malnutrition in Benin.

A comprehensive review on ethnobotanical applications and pharmacological activities of Acampe praemorsa (Roxb.) Blatt. &amp; McCann (Orchidaceae)

Orchidaceae is one of the two largest families in angiosperms. Orchids are popular owing to the most beautiful flowers they produce and due to their wide spread ethnobotanical importance. In this review, ethnobotanical uses and pharmacological activities of A. praemorsa is discussed by referring flora, journals, and search engines such as Google scholar, ScienceDirect and Pubmed. Ethnobotanical investigations have revealed the potential therapeutic roles of different parts of A. praemorsa. The orchid is used traditionally by for treating ailments such as stomachache, earache, backache, wounds, neuralgia, rheumatism, eye diseases, sciatica, cough and fracture. A. praemorsa is investigated for various pharmacological activities. Studies have revealed the potential of A. praemorsa to exhibit a range of bioactivities such as anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In conclusion, A. praemorsa is an extensively used epiphytic orchid for medicinal purposes in several parts of the India and other countries. Major emphasis has to be given in order to conserve this medicinally important orchid species. A. praemorsa can be a promising candidate in terms of its pharmacological potential.&#x0D; Keywords: Orchids, Orchidaceae, Acampe praemorsa, Ethnobotanical, Pharmacological

Wastewater Treatment Potentials of Vegetated Beds with &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Brillantaisia cf. bauchiensis&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Hutch &amp;amp; Dalz and &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Polygonum salicifolium&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Brouss ex Wild in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potentials of beds vegetated with medicinal species (Brillantaisia bauchiensis and Polygonum salicifolium) in a constructed wetland for domestic wastewater treatment in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. The study was carried out between March and September 2017 on plants collected from a natural wetland in Penka-Michel. The two plants species selected based on their ethnobotanical importance were transplanted and allowed to grow to maturity in a prepared natural wetland at Penka-Michel and a constructed wetland for domestic wastewater treatment on the campus of the University of Dschang. Growth parameters were followed for the two plants species in both wetlands. The physicochemical parameters and faecal bacteria concentrations were measured only for the vegetated and non-vegetated/control beds in the constructed wetland. Overall, the two plants species showed increased growth in height, diameter, leaf number and plants density. The change in diameter and density were very significantly influenced by species type in the constructed wetland than in the natural wetland. Generally, plant growth in height, diameter and density were higher with B. bauchiensis in the constructed wetland than with P. salicifolium in both wetlands. The mean faecal bacteria removal was higher in the vegetated beds for some bacteria than in the non-vegetated/control bed. There was a significant difference in the reduction efficiency of TSS, turbidity, BOD, Faecal streptococci and Total coliforms bacteria between the inflow and the outflow of some treatment beds especially the bed vegetated with Brillantaisia bauchiensis. There were correlations between the two plants species as concerns increased plants height, diameter, leave number, shoot number and nutrients uptake in the constructed wetland beds compared with the natural wetland.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used by Miao people in Jijiezi, Yunnan, China

Background: The Miao ethnic group is an indigenous group in China with a long history of traditional medicine utilization and owns rich traditional knowledge related to biodiversity utilization and conservation. In Jijiezi village, Yunnan, the Miao ethnic group is the main ethnic group and retains a rich traditional culture. The area is rich in plant resources and the custom of using Miao medicine is still retained. It is important to evaluate the inheritance of the knowledge of Miao medicine in the region and the development prospects of Miao medicine culture. Methods: The data was collected in different seasons in 2014, with a total of 200 informants interviewed using free listing and semi-structured interviews. Results: This study recorded the ethnobotanical importance of Miao medicine in Jijiezi, Yunnan, China. 42 species from 26 families and 37 genera were identified. For each species scientific and Miao names, distribution, and use knowledge were recorded and analyzed which can help the assessment the current status of Miao traditional medicine. The results show that the traditional knowledge of Miao medicine is very rich and has a good therapeutic effect on a variety of diseases, and that there is a homology of medicine and food. However, the traditional knowledge of Miao medicine is more and more getting lost and needs urgent protection. Conclusions: It is important to protect the traditional Miao medicine knowledge and promote sustainable development of Miao medicine culture. We propose to protect and develop local Miao medicine knowledge, and suggest (1) documentation of species used in this practice may provide basic information for conservation, and further use, and will help to preserve local traditional knowledge, (2) training of practitioners in Miao medicine to maintain Miao medicine culture, (3) encourage local governments to adopt relevant policies to protect the culture of Miao medicine, and (4) bring Miao medicine into the market and promoting the development of Miao medicine. Keywords: Miao nationality, traditional knowledge, Medicinal plants, Yunnan, Biodiversity

Study of ethno-botanical herbaceous plants and their utilization in district Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is known as a rich source for valuable medicinal herbs. These herbs found here are distributed throughout India and to various parts of the world. From the ancient time herbs have been used as the source of botanical medicine by the human beings. Herbs are the richest source of medicines due to the presence of biochemicals in them which are useful to cure various diseases. The present study includes ethno-botanical importance of the herbs commonly used by different local communities. Ethno-botanical density as well as diversity may vary from region to region and habitat to habitat. Keeping this in view an extensive survey work was carried out in Agra (western part) of Uttar Pradesh state of India for the medicinal herb resources to obtain information about the traditional uses and knowledge of local people about these popular herbs. Based on the results it was found that 118 species had useful medicinal uses to treat different human and livestock ailments. Various plant parts were being used for curing different types of serious diseases such as tuberculosis, leprosy, asthma, piles, dengue fever, typhoid, blood bleeding etc in human beings and domestic animals.

Traditional Uses of the Family Piperaceae in Oaxaca, Mexico

The ethnobotanical importance of the family Piperaceae is recognized mainly for its medicinal properties. A total of 106 species of two genera of this family ( Piper and Peperomia) have been collected in Oaxaca, but only 18 are recorded in scientific publications as medicinal, edible, veterinary, or ritual plants. The objectives of this study are to describe the traditional knowledge and uses of the Piperaceae in areas of high biocultural diversity of Oaxaca and to analyze the relationship between its geographic distribution with ethnobotanical records among ethnic groups. Fieldwork was carried out between 2013 and 2016, and voucher specimens were reviewed in Mexican herbaria. Two multivariate analyses were applied to compare the geographic distribution of Piperaceae with ethnobotanical knowledge in Oaxaca. A total of 13 species of Peperomia, and 7 of Piper were collected, besides some unidentified species of both genera. Seven use categories were registered, with medicinal and edible being the most important. A high percentage (65%) of the species is named in at least one native language. Most species have a single use, mainly medicinal. Peperomia has been collected in Oaxaca since 1980, while Piper since 1960. Multivariate analysis indicated the existence of a differentiated ethnobotanical knowledge of this family among ethnic groups, related to the geographic distribution of species. This study evidences that ethnic groups, who maintain areas of higher biodiversity, obtain these species mainly from the wild, from specific microenvironments; hence, conservation practices must be reinforced for them, as for all ecosystems in general.

Nutritional analysis of some selected medicinal plants of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Plant biodiversity contribute significantly to human health, nourishing and nurturing them and alleviating their acute and chronic diseases. Plants not only served as curing agents since long but also providing basic nutrients like carbohydrates, protein, fat etc. These nutrients have essential role in supporting human body requirements for vigor, used in different physiological and morphological functions. In present study, Cucumis sativus, Portulaca oleracea, Malus baccata, Saxifraga flagillaris, Geranium wallichianum and Monotheca buxifolia, were assessed for their nutritional and proximate composition (ash, moisture, protein, carbohydrates and fat) subjected to Association of Official Analytical Chemist (AOAC) procedure based to their ethno botanical importance. In results, the comparative assessment of these selected plants showed that Carbohydrates was highest in Monotheca buxifolia (74.27%), followed by Geranium wallichianum (64.68%) and Saxifraga flagillaris (62.79%). Ash content was highest in Portulaca oleracea (26.44%), followed by Malus baccata (22.83%) and Cucumis sativus (20%). Malus baccata possessed highest percentage of moisture (18.69%). Saxifraga flagillaris has highest percentage of protein (4.37%). Cucumis sativus consisted of highest percentage of fat (14%). It is concluded from the present study that medicinal plants play crucial role in human life and are praiseworthy springs of food nutrients and therapeutics associate in human health. Keywords: Carbohydrates; Fat content; Medicinal plants; Nutritional analysis; Protein content http://dx.doi.org/10.19045/bspab.2018.700114