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An inventory of indigenous knowledge and cultivation practices of medicinal plants in Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary, Central Himalaya, India

An inventory of indigenous knowledge and cultivation practices of medicinal plants in Govind... International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management Vol. 6, Nos. 3–4, September–December 2010, 96–105 An inventory of indigenous knowledge and cultivation practices of medicinal plants in Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary, Central Himalaya, India Vikram S. Negi*, R.K. Maikhuri, P.C. Phondani and L.S. Rawat G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Garhwal Unit, Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India This paper presents the results of a study on the indigenous knowledge of local medicinal practitioners known as Vaidhyas and other knowledgeable people of Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary. The purpose was to document indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants and develop strategies for their cultivation to sustain the traditional healthcare system and livelihood of the rural inhabitants. Since knowledge of uses of various medicinal plants is confined to mostly traditional herbal healers, it is of utmost importance to document this knowledge for future generations. We have documented 33 plant species belonging to 32 genera and 28 families used traditionally to cure 28 diseases. The paper also analyses the linkages of various institutions working for medicinal plant cultivation, along with opportunities and constraints in this sector. A survey was conducted to collect information regarding medicinal plant cultivation and the possibilities of cultivating species in the area. The perception of local people on illegal harvesting and cultivation options of medicinal plants in the area is also discussed. Keywords: traditional healthcare system; Vaidhyas; conservation; livelihood; medicinal plants; indigenous knowledge threatened due to over-exploitation, reckless harvesting Introduction from the forest and alpine meadows (Maikhuri et al. 1998a; Traditional herbal remedies have always played a key role Uniyal et al. 2000; Uniyal et al. 2006). With the real- in the healthcare systems, all over the world. In India, the isation that some wild species are being over-exploited, native people still exploit a variety of herbal plants for cur- several agencies are recommending that wild species be ing various types of ailments. It is estimated that 70–80% brought into cultivation (Lambert et al. 1997; BAH 2004). of people worldwide rely chiefly on traditional healthcare Cultivation of medicinal plants is widely viewed not only systems and largely on herbal medicines (Farnsworth and as an option for meeting current and future demands Soejarto 1991; Pei 2002). The contribution of medicinal for large-volume production of plant-based drugs and plants to the health of rural people in the Himalayan region herbal remedies but also as a strategy for relieving har- is extremely important because most of the population vest pressure on wild populations (FAO 1995; Lambert still rely on traditional healthcare systems (Maikhuri et al. et al. 1997). Therefore, cultivation and conservation of 1998b; Nautiyal et al. 2005; Phondani 2010). Knowledge medicinal plant is a prerequisite to sustain the tradi- of herbal medicines is gradually being lost, although some tional healthcare system not in the region but throughout traditional herbal practitioners are still practicing a tradi- Uttarakhand State as well. The conversion of socio-cultural tional system of healthcare systematically and effectively traditions and indigenous knowledge into livelihood means (Maikhuri et al. 1998a). Primitive people have acquired and economic opportunities also has the advantage of knowledge about medicinal properties of plants by trial and preserving rapidly eroding indigenous knowledge and error, and have made an outstanding contribution to the practice. This study is an attempt to document indige- origin and evolution of many traditional herbal therapies nous knowledge of local medicinal practitioners and other in the Himalayan region. Documentation of indigenous erudite people and develop sound strategies for medici- knowledge and evaluation of the use of plants for a vari- nal plant cultivation to sustain the traditional healthcare ety of purposes assume greater significance, not just to system. retain it, but also to keep it alive and make it available for future use because of rapid socio-economic and cul- tural changes that are taking place across the traditional Study area community of the region (Maikhuri et al. 1998b; Kala ◦  ◦  ◦  ◦ Uttarakhand (20 26 –31 38 N, 77 49 –80 6 E) is a newly 2005). formed hill state located in the central part of the Indian But recently, decreasing populations of medicinal Himalayas. The state of Uttarakhand encompasses an area plants in the wild due to illegal exploitation have led to dis- of 53,483 km , which accounts for nearly 15.5% of the total cussions among conservationists, ecologists and scientists geographical area of Western Himalayas and 1.63% of the (Maikhuri et al. 1998a; Singh 2002). Several medicinal total land area of India, along with population density of plants have been listed as endangered, vulnerable and *Corresponding author. Email: vikramsnegii@gmail.com ISSN 2151-3732 print/ISSN 2151-3740 online © 2010 Taylor & Francis DOI: 10.1080/21513732.2011.575385 http://www.infomaworld.com International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management 97 –2 42 villages, at altitudes of 1290 m to 3500 m a.s.l. 159 persons km with a total population of 8.5 million Thus, the area has significant value as a major watershed people (Nandy et al. 2006). The study area falls under for the River Yamuna, which is a very important river for Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarkashi dis- the Indo-Gangetic plains. Vegetation varies according to trict of Uttarakhand (Figure 1). The sanctuary contains Figure 1. Map of the study area. Source: Negi (2009). 98 V.S. Negi et al. altitude and climate: Alnus nepalensis, Pinus roxburghii, income groups, namely, rich, medium and poor, on the Mallotus phillippensis, Toona ciliata, Grewia spp., Acer basis of annual income and landholding. spp. and Celtis australis are found in the subtropical zone; Quercus leucotrichophora, Quercus floribunda, Juglans regia, Corylus jacquemontii, Rhododendron arboreum, Interactive discussions with stakeholders Cedrus deodara, Picea smithiana, etc., in the temperate Various meetings/discussions at village level were organ- zone; Taxus wallichiana, Quercus semecarpifolia, Pinus ised with different age groups of men and women above wallichiana, C. deodara, Rhododendron campanulatum, 20 years of age. Vaidhyas, local school teachers and Ulmus wallichiana, etc., in the sub-alpine zone; and local knowledgeable people were invited to discuss and Picrorhiza kurrooa, Nardostachys grandiflora, Androsace share their views of different uses of medicinal plants, globifera, Danthonia cachemyriana, Acontium hetero- methods and periods of collection and their conserva- phyllum, A. balfourii, Cyananthus sp., Gentiana sp. and tion strategies and the fate of the traditional health- Potentilla sp. dominate the alpine zone of the sanctu- care system. Questionnaires developed by the authors ary (Negi 2009; Negi et al. 2009). The people living in were completed by participants and deposited with the these villages are by and large poor, lead a traditional life, authors. The frequency of plant use for various purposes are known as ‘Parvati’, and follow their own culture and was also documented on the basis of the results and community life. feedback obtained from participants through question- naires. Information on different compositions of medicines prepared to cure ailments was obtained from Vaidhyas Methods of the studied villages. For authentication, the collected information was matched with available literature. Fresh In-depth baseline survey samples of the species were collected and identified with A rapid rural appraisal survey was conducted in all villages the help of research papers, local floras and taxonomists of the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary selected (Badoni 1988; Jain and Saklani 1991; Gaur 1999; Kumar for the study between altitudes of 1290–3500 m. Because 2002; Bahuguna 2006; Phondani et al. 2010). All the pre- the selected villages are heavily dependent (70%) on the served specimens were deposited in the G.B. Pant Institute traditional healthcare system, more than 48 Vaidhyas and of Himalayan Environment and Development, Garhwal 500 families were involved in the interviews in order Unit, Srinagar, Uttarakhand, India. to document their knowledge about traditional health- care. In addition, four basic approaches were adopted to obtain detailed information regarding indigenous knowl- Status of medicinal plant cultivation edge prevalent among inhabitants of the region and mode A survey was conducted to collect information regarding of practicing that knowledge. medicinal plant cultivation and potential species for culti- vation in the area. Availability of medicinal plants for past 10 years in the region was assessed. Interview-based approach Structured and semi-structured questionnaires related to the use of plants for different diseases were developed. A Results herbarium of plants used by local people was developed The inhabitants of villages in Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife and visits to forest sites were made with herbal healers and Sanctuary use a number of medicinal plants for treatment other knowledgeable people for identification of specific of various diseases. People preferred to consult Vaidhyas plants. Vaidhyas, elders and women were consulted regard- to diagnose their problem, despite their own knowledge of ing the use of a specific plant and its medicinal uses, and some medicinal plants. There are more than 12 Vaidhyas this was checked during discussions with other knowledge- practicing medicinal plant cultivation on a small scale in able people and confirmed accordingly for authenticity the region. A total of 33 plant species in 32 genera and 28 of both plant material and appropriate use in traditional families are used traditionally for treatment of more than healthcare in the study area. 28 diseases in the region. Methods of using these plants vary according to the nature of the disease; a decoction of leaves, stems, fruits and roots was the dominant form for Inventory-based approach treatment. The availability of most plants has decreased in Plant specimens were collected, identified by vernacular their natural habitats (Table 1). Among the plants, there name and traditional use during frequent interviews with were trees (27.30%), shrubs (15.20%), herbs (54.50%) the local people. The head, elders and women of each and fungi (3%) (Figure 2). In terms of utilisation of the household were interviewed in order to understand the species, roots (27.3%), leaves (24.2%), flowers (6.1%), dependence of people in the area on herbal and allopathic fruits (15.1%), bark (18.2%), seeds (3.0%) and whole treatments. The respondents were categorised into three plants (6.1%) were used by local inhabitants for various International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management 99 Table 1. Medicinal plants used in traditional healthcare by inhabitants of the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary. Perception of local people No. of Conservation regarding diseases Family Scientific name Local name Part used status availability treated Folk medicinal uses Asteraceae Artemisia Kunj Leaves Rare Increased 6 Juice of fresh leaves for nilagirica boils, cuts, wound and C.B. Clarke intestinal worms. Leaf paste used for skin infection and ringworm. Leaf and flower tips used in asthma Saussurea Kut Root Critically Decreased 4 Root paste used for costus (Falc) endangered toothache, jaundice, Lipsch snakebite and skin disease Berberidaceae Berberis Kingore Bark, root Vulnerable Not changed 4 Used for stomach ache and aristata DC. as diaphoretic. Juice from bark given for eye diseases. Root infusion used for fever Cannabaceae Cannabis Bhaang Leaves Common Increased 6 Leaf paste used for piles, sativa L. cuts and skin ulcers. Seed oil used for burns and muscular pain Polygonaceae Rumex hastatus Jangli palak Leaves Rare Not changed 3 Leaf paste used for wounds (D. Don) and bleeding. Juice of fresh leaves used for internal heat Elaeagnaceae Hippophae Amil, Ames Fruits Near Decrease 6 Fruit juice mixed with salicifolia threatened sugar and Eleusine (D. Don) coracana for cold and cough. Fruit used for gastric trouble Ericaceae Lyonia Anyaar Leaves Vulnerable Decrease 2 Buds used for itching. Leaf ovalifolia paste used in allergy and (Wall.) Drud. fungal infection Rhododendron Burans Flower Vulnerable Decrease 7 Flower paste used for arboreum bleeding nose. Warm Smith leaves in oil used for arthritis. Seed paste used for boils and wounds. Leaf juice with butter and pepper used for jaundice. Flower juice used in blood pressure and as heart tonic Tiliaceae Grewia Bhimal Bark Vulnerable Not changed 1 Extract of bark is given to oppositifolia pregnant women for Drummond smooth delivery ex Burret Gentianaceae Swertia Chirayata Whole Endangered Decrease 3 Juice of fresh leaves and chirayita stem used for fever, Roxb. Ex diabetes and dyspepsia Flem Helvellaceae Morchella Guchhi Whole Rare Decrease 3 Decoction of dried fruit esculenta L. useful in cold and cough Peres. Hippocastanaceae Aesculus indica Pangar Fruits Vulnerable Not changed 3 Ground fruits given to Colebr. goats as galactagogue. Fruit paste applied externally for sore throat. Seed paste and oil applied in rheumatic pain Hypericaceae Hypericum Vasanti Leaves, root Rare Decrease 3 Leaf paste used as elodeoides febrifuge root decoction Choisy used to control vomiting (Continued) 100 V.S. Negi et al. Table 1. (Continued). Perception of local people No. of Conservation regarding diseases Family Scientific name Local name Part used status availability treated Folk medicinal uses Juglandaceae Juglans regia L. Jangali Fruit Vulnerable Not changed 2 Oil from seeds rubbed on akhrot swollen legs of pregnant women. Fruit peel used to treat ringworm Liliaceae Asparagus Satavari Root Endangered Decrease 1 Root paste used for racemosus L. epilepsy Paeoniaceae Paeonia emodi Chandra Whole Endangered Decrease 7 Root paste given for Wall. Ex Royle whooping cough, diarrhoea, intestinal spasm and cuts. Root infusion used in eczema. Root powder applied to ulcers to kill maggots. Young shoot and leaves used as vegetable and in post-natal care Pinaceae Pinus wallichiana Kail Resin Vulnerable Decrease 2 Resin used for arthritis. Jacks Unripe cones used to encourage milk flow Poaceae Cynodon Doob Whole Common Increased 3 Root powder mixed with dactylon L. sugar used to treat dysentery, vomiting and burning sensation Podophylaceae Podophyllum Bankakari Fruits, root Endangered Decrease 3 Ripe fruit eaten for loss of hexandrum breath. Root paste used Royle for cuts and wounds Polygonaceae Rheum emodi Dolu Root Endangered Decrease 3 Dried leaf powder mixed (D. Don) with mustard oil and applied externally for boils, wounds and cuts Orchidaceae Dactylorrhiza Hatazari Tuber Critically Decrease 5 Tuber paste applied to hatagirea endangered wounds and cuts, and (D. Don) Soo used for fever and dysentery Ranunculaceae Aconitum Meetha Tuber Critically Decrease 1 Tuber paste used for balfourii endangered snakebite (Bruhl) Muk. Aconitum Atis Root Critically Decrease 3 Root paste used for heterophyllum endangered headache. Root powder Wall. Ex Royle andmilkusedfor fever and stomach ache Linaceae Reinwardtia Pauyoli Flower Rare Decrease 1 Petal juice used as tongue indica wash Dumortier Rosaceae Prinsepia utilis Bhaikal Seeds Near Decrease 3 Seed oil used for pain and Royle threatened muscular pain. Root paste used on wounds Rubiaceae Galium Kuri Leaves Common Increased 1 Leaf paste used as cooling aparine L. agent Rutaceae Skimmia Kedarpatti Leaves Rare Decrease 3 Leaf paste with turmeric anquetilia used for rheumatism and Taylore & Airy swelling. Bark powder of Shaw bark applied to wounds Zanthoxylum Timuru Bark, fruits Vulnerable Decrease 2 Bark paste and fruit powder armatum DC. used for toothache. Branches used as toothbrush. Seeds used as spice. Bark used to intoxicate fish Scrophulaceae Picrorhiza Kutki Root Critically Decrease 3 Dried roots and sugar used kurrooa Royle endangered for stomach ache, ex Benth typhoid and jaundice (Continued) International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management 101 Table 1. (Continued). Perception of local people No. of Conservation regarding diseases Family Scientific name Local name Part used status availability treated Folk medicinal uses Pinaceae Cedrus deodar Devdar Bark Vulnerable Decrease 4 Bark paste used for Loud. rheumatism and back pain. Oil used on wounds and cuts Taxaceae Taxus baccata L. Thuner Bark Endangered Decrease 3 Bark powder, salt and ghee as a tea for cancer, bone fracture and to keep body warm in winter Urticaceae Utrica dioica L. Kandali Leaves Common Not changed 4 Decoction of leaves used for stomach disorders, menstruation, arthritis and ripening boils Valerianaceae Nardostachys Jatamasi Rhizome Critically Decrease 5 Decoction of rhizome used grandiflora endangered for blood pressure, DC. jaundice, leprosy and heart disease. Root paste and butter used for rheumatism Note: Red Data Book/IUCN/CITE. 60.00 30.00 25.00 50.00 20.00 40.00 15.00 30.00 10.00 20.00 5.00 10.00 0.00 0.00 Roots Leaves Flowers Fruits Bark Seeds Whole Herbs Shrubs Trees Fungus plant Figure 2. Life form of plant species used for treatment of Figure 3. Utilisation patterns of plant parts for treatment of various diseases. various types of diseases. diseases (Figure 3). The frequency of plant species to cure authorities of the sanctuary by providing subsidies and a particular disease was also estimated and a maximum short-term loans to the villages, and there is no limita- of 10 plants were used to cure stomach disorders; 8 for tion by the sanctuary authorities on cultivation of crops fevers, boils and wounds; 5 for cuts and skin disease; 4 for in their agricultural land. The high-altitude villages of the ulcers, rheumatism, jaundice, arthritis and menstruation; area have a conducive climate for cultivation of medici- 3 for cough and vomiting; and 2 for snakebite, toothache, nal plants since the area has high snowfall and rain, but burns, muscular pain, bleeding and cancer (Figure 4). because of a lack of proper cultivation knowledge, insti- Many progressive farmers in the study villages were tutional support and planting material, various schemes interested in medicinal plant cultivation and registration for medicinal plant cultivation provided by the govern- with government agencies for cultivation and marketing ment are taken up by only a few families. Medicinal plants of medicinal plants as crops. In this process, farmers can like Saussurea costus, Swertia chirayta, Dactylorrhiza benefit from government schemes for medicinal plant cul- hatagirea, A. heterophyllum, P. kurrooa, Carum carvi, tivation such as loans, subsidies, good-quality planting Angelica glauca and N. grandiflora are still cultivated material and training in appropriate cultivation practices, on the fringes of the forest (encroached land) and agri- while also being free from involvement of middlemen. cultural land by people in some studied villages in the They can cultivate most kinds of crop, including medic- sanctuary. The cost–benefit analysis of cultivation of some inal plants, but not crops banned for cultivation by the important medicinal plants in Uttarakhand is presented in government. There is a ban on illegal collection of medic- Table 2. inal plants from the sanctuary area, not for cultivation. The question-based survey on perceptions of local peo- Cultivation of medicinal plants is also promoted by the ple indicated that the availability of medicinal plants has (%) (%) 102 V.S. Negi et al. Name of disease Figure 4. Frequency of plant species used for treatment of various diseases. –1 Table 2. Cost and benefit (Rs ha ) of some important medicinal plants in Uttarakhand. S. no. Medicinal plant Production (kg/ha) Cultivation cost (Rs) Total income (Rs) Net profit (Rs) 1. Aconitum hetrophyllum 175 kg dry rhizome 100,000.00 262,500.00 162,500.00 2. Picrorhiza kurrooa 1,000 kg dry roots 50,000.00 150,000.00 100,000.00 3. Saussurea costus 3,500 kg dry roots 25,000.00 175,000.00 150,000.00 4. Nardostachys jatamansi 1,250 kg dry roots 125,000.00 187,500.00 62,500.00 5. Swertia chirayita 1,100 kg whole plant 100,000.00 220,000.00 120,000.00 6. Allium stracheyi 250 kg dry leaves 25,000.00 312,500.00 287,500.00 and flowers 7. Carum carvi 250 kg dry seeds 40,000.00 625,000.00 585,000.00 8. Podophyllum hexandrum 440 kg dry rhizome 125,000.00 169,000.00 44,000.00 Source: Herbal Research and Development Institute (HRDI), Gopeshwar, Uttarakhand, India. decreased over the past 10 years. Most plants that were to collection of medicinal plants in the sanctuary because available near a village periphery are now confined to people only collect small quantities, but collection inside the forest ecosystem and alpine meadows. At present, the core zone is prohibited. The traditional values, faith resource-poor people in the region collect plants from the and indigenous knowledge of the healthcare system of the wild in order to complement their meagre incomes and for present society face serious challenges due to migration treatment of various diseases. Due to continued collection of young people to cities, and these urban migrants tend and increasing market demand, numerous plant species are to undermine their own cultural beliefs and knowledge of under threat (Table 1). On the basis of people’s perception, the traditional healthcare system, as also found in other it was found that some plants have disappeared from land parts of Himalayas (Maikhuri et al. 1998b; Kala 2000; Kala surrounding the villages due to land-use disturbance, heavy et al. 2005; Nautiyal et al. 2005; Kala 2007; Phondani livestock grazing, changing climate and illegal harvesting. et al. 2010). In remote areas, where the majority of the People also considered that there was no difference in heal- old generation particularly women are less educated, they ing effect between medicinal plants collected from the wild still possess much knowledge and deep understanding of or from cultivated sources. traditional healthcare. Older people possess more indige- nous knowledge of medicinal plants compared with the young. The effectiveness of medicinal plants also varies between groups (young/old) and is more effective among Discussion younger people. The method for using these plants varies Documentation of indigenous knowledge among age groups according to the nature of the disease People in the studied villages use many plant species col- and specific dose (Phondani 2010). Knowledge of medici- lected from the wild as medicine in the traditional health- nal plants used is mainly restricted to local healers, and it care system. There are no management conflicts pertaining is very important to document this knowledge for future Boils & wounds Snakebites Toothache Stomach disorder Eye disease Ulcer Piles Burns Cough Muscular pain Rheumatism Paralysis Bleeding Diabetes Jaundice Dyspepsia Vomiting Epilepsy Arthritis Bone fracture Menstruation Blood pressure Cuts Leprosy Cancer Heart disoder Skin disease Fever No. of plants used International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management 103 generation, otherwise it will vanish forever. Throughout cultural knowledge and practices, which are increasingly the region there is an urgent need to support, safeguard threatened due to globalisation and homogenisation of peo- and promote cultural and spiritual values of traditional ple (Nautiyal et al. 2005). Similarly, in other parts of medicines. These medicinal plant species collected by the Uttarakhand, due to favourable climatic and soil condi- local people from various locations, for example, kitchen tions in villages of sanctuary, medicinal plant cultivation gardens, agriculture fields and the wild, in a particular has great potential for employment generation, if under- time/season is based on socio-cultural and religious prac- taken properly. As farmers of the area are well aware of tices and they are used as per the methods prescribed by the use and value of medicinal plants, 10–12 species are Vaidhyas. For example, Vaidhyas provide effective cures being cultivated in their kitchen gardens by the Vaidhyas in for ailments using A. heterophyllum collected on Onsh high-altitude villages to meet their own requirements and (no moon day of the waning fortnight) to cure fever and to earn cash by offering treatments in the villages. Farmers stomach ache. need to be encouraged to grow species that have economic In order to maintain and strengthen the traditional potential and are rare and endangered to ensure sustainabil- healthcare system, the Vaidhyas took a keen interest ity of the ecosystem (Maikhuri et al. 2003; Kala 2007) and in developing an association with the Garhwal unit of rejuvenation of traditional healthcare in the region. the G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development for facilitating the main stakeholders and providing an appropriate platform for developing an Linkages of various institutions in medicinal plant association, called Paramparik Gramin Chikitsak Sabha, cultivation Gopeswar, Uttarakhand. This association also plays an active role in revitalising the traditional healthcare sys- Medicinal plant cultivation is required to sustain the tem and conservation of natural medicinal plant resources traditional healthcare system, and various institutions on which Vaidhyas depend for curing ailments, and shar- working in the area of medicinal plant cultivation, ing and protecting the rights of rural communities over for example, the Forest Department, Forest Research indigenous knowledge (Phondani 2010). Therefore, there Institute University, Dehradun; High Altitude Plant is a need to develop an appropriate mechanism for benefits Physiology Research Centre, Srinagar, Garhwal; G.B. Pant sharing and to protect the rights of rural communities over Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants used in their Almora; Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun; Uttarakhand healthcare system, not only in this area but in the entire Parvatiya Aajeevika Savardhan Componey, Dehradun; Himalayan region. National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, Bhowali; Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Nagla; and Herbal Research and Development Cultivation and conservation of medicinal plants Institute (HRDI), Gopeshwar. These all help in medici- Medicinal plants are indispensable for the sustainability of nal plant cultivation through programmes for developing traditional healthcare systems (Kandari 2005). The medici- and disseminating cultivation technologies, setting up nurs- nal plant sector can provide an important source of income eries to propagate and supply planting material to farmers, to rural inhabitants. At present, resource-poor people of training farmers and providing loans and subsidies linked the region collect plants from the wild to complement their to cultivation of medicinal plants for sustainable develop- meagre income. Besides illegal collection, there were many ment. HRDI is a state government institution set up for pro- other threats, such as land-use disturbances, heavy live- motion, conservation and cultivation of medicinal plants. stock grazing and changing climate conditions. Collectors Currently, HRDI and High Altitude Plant Physiology of medicinal plants are primarily interested in increased Research Centre promote medicinal plant cultivation in the incomes over a short time and have no concern for plant Govind Pashu Vihar Sanctuary through disseminating cul- sustainability. The reduction of grazing rights in forests tivation technologies, supplying planting material to the and meadows may enhance plant diversity and ecosys- farmers and conducting research and training programmes tem functioning if grazing pressure is intense (Rao et al. for interested farmers. Therefore, interested/progressive 2003). If disturbances caused by traditional resource uses farmers of the region are benefited from these institutions are moderate, diversity may decline following abandon- in terms of knowledge of cultivation and planting mate- ment of such uses and recuperation of lost diversity may be rial, not only to sustain the traditional healthcare system in a very slow and costly process (Kotiluoto 1998; Stampfli the region, but also as a viable livelihood option. Besides and Zeiter 1999). In the Johar valley in Pithoragarh dis- these institutions, NGOs like the Society for Himalayan trict of Uttarakhand, collectors reported that 5 years ago Environment Research also play a role as catalyst in agri- they were able to collect about 200 g of dry Atish cultural diversification of medicinal plants in the sanctuary (A. heterophyllum) in 1 day, but now they collect less than villages through a ‘learning by doing’ approach. HRDI –1 70–100 g day (Belt et al. 2003; Alam and Belt 2004). provides loans and subsidies for cultivation of medicinal The conversion of socio-cultural traditions and indigenous plants and also has registered farmers for cultivation of knowledge into livelihood means and economic opportu- medicinal plants so that they can market their crops with nities also has the advantage of preserving rapidly eroding the help of the institute without involvement of middlemen. 104 V.S. Negi et al. Below are some recommendations for promotion of Acknowledgements medicinal plant cultivation and conservation for sustain- The authors thank the director of the G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Kosi-Katarmal, ability of traditional healthcare in the sanctuary: Almora, Uttarakhand, India, for providing facilities to undertake this work. We are also thankful to DST/SSD for providing finan- � Medicinal plant cultivation on restored lands could cial support to conduct the study. We thank the people in the study be encouraged under a management action plan to area for their kind cooperation during the fieldwork. increase people’s participation and improve the local economy. � Proper documentation of ethnobotanical/indigenous References knowledge of medicinal plants. Alam G, Belt J. 2004. 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Traditional use Traditional agriculture in transition: a case of Har-ki Doon of medicinal plants among the tribal communities of Chhota Valley (Govind Pashu Vihar Sanctuary and National Park) in Bhangal, Western Himalaya. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed. 2: Central Himalaya. Int J Sust Dev World Ecol. 16(5):313–321. 1–14. http://www.deepdyve.com/assets/images/DeepDyve-Logo-lg.png International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management Taylor & Francis

An inventory of indigenous knowledge and cultivation practices of medicinal plants in Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary, Central Himalaya, India

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2151-3732
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10.1080/21513732.2011.575385
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Abstract

International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management Vol. 6, Nos. 3–4, September–December 2010, 96–105 An inventory of indigenous knowledge and cultivation practices of medicinal plants in Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary, Central Himalaya, India Vikram S. Negi*, R.K. Maikhuri, P.C. Phondani and L.S. Rawat G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Garhwal Unit, Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India This paper presents the results of a study on the indigenous knowledge of local medicinal practitioners known as Vaidhyas and other knowledgeable people of Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary. The purpose was to document indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants and develop strategies for their cultivation to sustain the traditional healthcare system and livelihood of the rural inhabitants. Since knowledge of uses of various medicinal plants is confined to mostly traditional herbal healers, it is of utmost importance to document this knowledge for future generations. We have documented 33 plant species belonging to 32 genera and 28 families used traditionally to cure 28 diseases. The paper also analyses the linkages of various institutions working for medicinal plant cultivation, along with opportunities and constraints in this sector. A survey was conducted to collect information regarding medicinal plant cultivation and the possibilities of cultivating species in the area. The perception of local people on illegal harvesting and cultivation options of medicinal plants in the area is also discussed. Keywords: traditional healthcare system; Vaidhyas; conservation; livelihood; medicinal plants; indigenous knowledge threatened due to over-exploitation, reckless harvesting Introduction from the forest and alpine meadows (Maikhuri et al. 1998a; Traditional herbal remedies have always played a key role Uniyal et al. 2000; Uniyal et al. 2006). With the real- in the healthcare systems, all over the world. In India, the isation that some wild species are being over-exploited, native people still exploit a variety of herbal plants for cur- several agencies are recommending that wild species be ing various types of ailments. It is estimated that 70–80% brought into cultivation (Lambert et al. 1997; BAH 2004). of people worldwide rely chiefly on traditional healthcare Cultivation of medicinal plants is widely viewed not only systems and largely on herbal medicines (Farnsworth and as an option for meeting current and future demands Soejarto 1991; Pei 2002). The contribution of medicinal for large-volume production of plant-based drugs and plants to the health of rural people in the Himalayan region herbal remedies but also as a strategy for relieving har- is extremely important because most of the population vest pressure on wild populations (FAO 1995; Lambert still rely on traditional healthcare systems (Maikhuri et al. et al. 1997). Therefore, cultivation and conservation of 1998b; Nautiyal et al. 2005; Phondani 2010). Knowledge medicinal plant is a prerequisite to sustain the tradi- of herbal medicines is gradually being lost, although some tional healthcare system not in the region but throughout traditional herbal practitioners are still practicing a tradi- Uttarakhand State as well. The conversion of socio-cultural tional system of healthcare systematically and effectively traditions and indigenous knowledge into livelihood means (Maikhuri et al. 1998a). Primitive people have acquired and economic opportunities also has the advantage of knowledge about medicinal properties of plants by trial and preserving rapidly eroding indigenous knowledge and error, and have made an outstanding contribution to the practice. This study is an attempt to document indige- origin and evolution of many traditional herbal therapies nous knowledge of local medicinal practitioners and other in the Himalayan region. Documentation of indigenous erudite people and develop sound strategies for medici- knowledge and evaluation of the use of plants for a vari- nal plant cultivation to sustain the traditional healthcare ety of purposes assume greater significance, not just to system. retain it, but also to keep it alive and make it available for future use because of rapid socio-economic and cul- tural changes that are taking place across the traditional Study area community of the region (Maikhuri et al. 1998b; Kala ◦  ◦  ◦  ◦ Uttarakhand (20 26 –31 38 N, 77 49 –80 6 E) is a newly 2005). formed hill state located in the central part of the Indian But recently, decreasing populations of medicinal Himalayas. The state of Uttarakhand encompasses an area plants in the wild due to illegal exploitation have led to dis- of 53,483 km , which accounts for nearly 15.5% of the total cussions among conservationists, ecologists and scientists geographical area of Western Himalayas and 1.63% of the (Maikhuri et al. 1998a; Singh 2002). Several medicinal total land area of India, along with population density of plants have been listed as endangered, vulnerable and *Corresponding author. Email: vikramsnegii@gmail.com ISSN 2151-3732 print/ISSN 2151-3740 online © 2010 Taylor & Francis DOI: 10.1080/21513732.2011.575385 http://www.infomaworld.com International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management 97 –2 42 villages, at altitudes of 1290 m to 3500 m a.s.l. 159 persons km with a total population of 8.5 million Thus, the area has significant value as a major watershed people (Nandy et al. 2006). The study area falls under for the River Yamuna, which is a very important river for Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarkashi dis- the Indo-Gangetic plains. Vegetation varies according to trict of Uttarakhand (Figure 1). The sanctuary contains Figure 1. Map of the study area. Source: Negi (2009). 98 V.S. Negi et al. altitude and climate: Alnus nepalensis, Pinus roxburghii, income groups, namely, rich, medium and poor, on the Mallotus phillippensis, Toona ciliata, Grewia spp., Acer basis of annual income and landholding. spp. and Celtis australis are found in the subtropical zone; Quercus leucotrichophora, Quercus floribunda, Juglans regia, Corylus jacquemontii, Rhododendron arboreum, Interactive discussions with stakeholders Cedrus deodara, Picea smithiana, etc., in the temperate Various meetings/discussions at village level were organ- zone; Taxus wallichiana, Quercus semecarpifolia, Pinus ised with different age groups of men and women above wallichiana, C. deodara, Rhododendron campanulatum, 20 years of age. Vaidhyas, local school teachers and Ulmus wallichiana, etc., in the sub-alpine zone; and local knowledgeable people were invited to discuss and Picrorhiza kurrooa, Nardostachys grandiflora, Androsace share their views of different uses of medicinal plants, globifera, Danthonia cachemyriana, Acontium hetero- methods and periods of collection and their conserva- phyllum, A. balfourii, Cyananthus sp., Gentiana sp. and tion strategies and the fate of the traditional health- Potentilla sp. dominate the alpine zone of the sanctu- care system. Questionnaires developed by the authors ary (Negi 2009; Negi et al. 2009). The people living in were completed by participants and deposited with the these villages are by and large poor, lead a traditional life, authors. The frequency of plant use for various purposes are known as ‘Parvati’, and follow their own culture and was also documented on the basis of the results and community life. feedback obtained from participants through question- naires. Information on different compositions of medicines prepared to cure ailments was obtained from Vaidhyas Methods of the studied villages. For authentication, the collected information was matched with available literature. Fresh In-depth baseline survey samples of the species were collected and identified with A rapid rural appraisal survey was conducted in all villages the help of research papers, local floras and taxonomists of the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary selected (Badoni 1988; Jain and Saklani 1991; Gaur 1999; Kumar for the study between altitudes of 1290–3500 m. Because 2002; Bahuguna 2006; Phondani et al. 2010). All the pre- the selected villages are heavily dependent (70%) on the served specimens were deposited in the G.B. Pant Institute traditional healthcare system, more than 48 Vaidhyas and of Himalayan Environment and Development, Garhwal 500 families were involved in the interviews in order Unit, Srinagar, Uttarakhand, India. to document their knowledge about traditional health- care. In addition, four basic approaches were adopted to obtain detailed information regarding indigenous knowl- Status of medicinal plant cultivation edge prevalent among inhabitants of the region and mode A survey was conducted to collect information regarding of practicing that knowledge. medicinal plant cultivation and potential species for culti- vation in the area. Availability of medicinal plants for past 10 years in the region was assessed. Interview-based approach Structured and semi-structured questionnaires related to the use of plants for different diseases were developed. A Results herbarium of plants used by local people was developed The inhabitants of villages in Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife and visits to forest sites were made with herbal healers and Sanctuary use a number of medicinal plants for treatment other knowledgeable people for identification of specific of various diseases. People preferred to consult Vaidhyas plants. Vaidhyas, elders and women were consulted regard- to diagnose their problem, despite their own knowledge of ing the use of a specific plant and its medicinal uses, and some medicinal plants. There are more than 12 Vaidhyas this was checked during discussions with other knowledge- practicing medicinal plant cultivation on a small scale in able people and confirmed accordingly for authenticity the region. A total of 33 plant species in 32 genera and 28 of both plant material and appropriate use in traditional families are used traditionally for treatment of more than healthcare in the study area. 28 diseases in the region. Methods of using these plants vary according to the nature of the disease; a decoction of leaves, stems, fruits and roots was the dominant form for Inventory-based approach treatment. The availability of most plants has decreased in Plant specimens were collected, identified by vernacular their natural habitats (Table 1). Among the plants, there name and traditional use during frequent interviews with were trees (27.30%), shrubs (15.20%), herbs (54.50%) the local people. The head, elders and women of each and fungi (3%) (Figure 2). In terms of utilisation of the household were interviewed in order to understand the species, roots (27.3%), leaves (24.2%), flowers (6.1%), dependence of people in the area on herbal and allopathic fruits (15.1%), bark (18.2%), seeds (3.0%) and whole treatments. The respondents were categorised into three plants (6.1%) were used by local inhabitants for various International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management 99 Table 1. Medicinal plants used in traditional healthcare by inhabitants of the Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary. Perception of local people No. of Conservation regarding diseases Family Scientific name Local name Part used status availability treated Folk medicinal uses Asteraceae Artemisia Kunj Leaves Rare Increased 6 Juice of fresh leaves for nilagirica boils, cuts, wound and C.B. Clarke intestinal worms. Leaf paste used for skin infection and ringworm. Leaf and flower tips used in asthma Saussurea Kut Root Critically Decreased 4 Root paste used for costus (Falc) endangered toothache, jaundice, Lipsch snakebite and skin disease Berberidaceae Berberis Kingore Bark, root Vulnerable Not changed 4 Used for stomach ache and aristata DC. as diaphoretic. Juice from bark given for eye diseases. Root infusion used for fever Cannabaceae Cannabis Bhaang Leaves Common Increased 6 Leaf paste used for piles, sativa L. cuts and skin ulcers. Seed oil used for burns and muscular pain Polygonaceae Rumex hastatus Jangli palak Leaves Rare Not changed 3 Leaf paste used for wounds (D. Don) and bleeding. Juice of fresh leaves used for internal heat Elaeagnaceae Hippophae Amil, Ames Fruits Near Decrease 6 Fruit juice mixed with salicifolia threatened sugar and Eleusine (D. Don) coracana for cold and cough. Fruit used for gastric trouble Ericaceae Lyonia Anyaar Leaves Vulnerable Decrease 2 Buds used for itching. Leaf ovalifolia paste used in allergy and (Wall.) Drud. fungal infection Rhododendron Burans Flower Vulnerable Decrease 7 Flower paste used for arboreum bleeding nose. Warm Smith leaves in oil used for arthritis. Seed paste used for boils and wounds. Leaf juice with butter and pepper used for jaundice. Flower juice used in blood pressure and as heart tonic Tiliaceae Grewia Bhimal Bark Vulnerable Not changed 1 Extract of bark is given to oppositifolia pregnant women for Drummond smooth delivery ex Burret Gentianaceae Swertia Chirayata Whole Endangered Decrease 3 Juice of fresh leaves and chirayita stem used for fever, Roxb. Ex diabetes and dyspepsia Flem Helvellaceae Morchella Guchhi Whole Rare Decrease 3 Decoction of dried fruit esculenta L. useful in cold and cough Peres. Hippocastanaceae Aesculus indica Pangar Fruits Vulnerable Not changed 3 Ground fruits given to Colebr. goats as galactagogue. Fruit paste applied externally for sore throat. Seed paste and oil applied in rheumatic pain Hypericaceae Hypericum Vasanti Leaves, root Rare Decrease 3 Leaf paste used as elodeoides febrifuge root decoction Choisy used to control vomiting (Continued) 100 V.S. Negi et al. Table 1. (Continued). Perception of local people No. of Conservation regarding diseases Family Scientific name Local name Part used status availability treated Folk medicinal uses Juglandaceae Juglans regia L. Jangali Fruit Vulnerable Not changed 2 Oil from seeds rubbed on akhrot swollen legs of pregnant women. Fruit peel used to treat ringworm Liliaceae Asparagus Satavari Root Endangered Decrease 1 Root paste used for racemosus L. epilepsy Paeoniaceae Paeonia emodi Chandra Whole Endangered Decrease 7 Root paste given for Wall. Ex Royle whooping cough, diarrhoea, intestinal spasm and cuts. Root infusion used in eczema. Root powder applied to ulcers to kill maggots. Young shoot and leaves used as vegetable and in post-natal care Pinaceae Pinus wallichiana Kail Resin Vulnerable Decrease 2 Resin used for arthritis. Jacks Unripe cones used to encourage milk flow Poaceae Cynodon Doob Whole Common Increased 3 Root powder mixed with dactylon L. sugar used to treat dysentery, vomiting and burning sensation Podophylaceae Podophyllum Bankakari Fruits, root Endangered Decrease 3 Ripe fruit eaten for loss of hexandrum breath. Root paste used Royle for cuts and wounds Polygonaceae Rheum emodi Dolu Root Endangered Decrease 3 Dried leaf powder mixed (D. Don) with mustard oil and applied externally for boils, wounds and cuts Orchidaceae Dactylorrhiza Hatazari Tuber Critically Decrease 5 Tuber paste applied to hatagirea endangered wounds and cuts, and (D. Don) Soo used for fever and dysentery Ranunculaceae Aconitum Meetha Tuber Critically Decrease 1 Tuber paste used for balfourii endangered snakebite (Bruhl) Muk. Aconitum Atis Root Critically Decrease 3 Root paste used for heterophyllum endangered headache. Root powder Wall. Ex Royle andmilkusedfor fever and stomach ache Linaceae Reinwardtia Pauyoli Flower Rare Decrease 1 Petal juice used as tongue indica wash Dumortier Rosaceae Prinsepia utilis Bhaikal Seeds Near Decrease 3 Seed oil used for pain and Royle threatened muscular pain. Root paste used on wounds Rubiaceae Galium Kuri Leaves Common Increased 1 Leaf paste used as cooling aparine L. agent Rutaceae Skimmia Kedarpatti Leaves Rare Decrease 3 Leaf paste with turmeric anquetilia used for rheumatism and Taylore & Airy swelling. Bark powder of Shaw bark applied to wounds Zanthoxylum Timuru Bark, fruits Vulnerable Decrease 2 Bark paste and fruit powder armatum DC. used for toothache. Branches used as toothbrush. Seeds used as spice. Bark used to intoxicate fish Scrophulaceae Picrorhiza Kutki Root Critically Decrease 3 Dried roots and sugar used kurrooa Royle endangered for stomach ache, ex Benth typhoid and jaundice (Continued) International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management 101 Table 1. (Continued). Perception of local people No. of Conservation regarding diseases Family Scientific name Local name Part used status availability treated Folk medicinal uses Pinaceae Cedrus deodar Devdar Bark Vulnerable Decrease 4 Bark paste used for Loud. rheumatism and back pain. Oil used on wounds and cuts Taxaceae Taxus baccata L. Thuner Bark Endangered Decrease 3 Bark powder, salt and ghee as a tea for cancer, bone fracture and to keep body warm in winter Urticaceae Utrica dioica L. Kandali Leaves Common Not changed 4 Decoction of leaves used for stomach disorders, menstruation, arthritis and ripening boils Valerianaceae Nardostachys Jatamasi Rhizome Critically Decrease 5 Decoction of rhizome used grandiflora endangered for blood pressure, DC. jaundice, leprosy and heart disease. Root paste and butter used for rheumatism Note: Red Data Book/IUCN/CITE. 60.00 30.00 25.00 50.00 20.00 40.00 15.00 30.00 10.00 20.00 5.00 10.00 0.00 0.00 Roots Leaves Flowers Fruits Bark Seeds Whole Herbs Shrubs Trees Fungus plant Figure 2. Life form of plant species used for treatment of Figure 3. Utilisation patterns of plant parts for treatment of various diseases. various types of diseases. diseases (Figure 3). The frequency of plant species to cure authorities of the sanctuary by providing subsidies and a particular disease was also estimated and a maximum short-term loans to the villages, and there is no limita- of 10 plants were used to cure stomach disorders; 8 for tion by the sanctuary authorities on cultivation of crops fevers, boils and wounds; 5 for cuts and skin disease; 4 for in their agricultural land. The high-altitude villages of the ulcers, rheumatism, jaundice, arthritis and menstruation; area have a conducive climate for cultivation of medici- 3 for cough and vomiting; and 2 for snakebite, toothache, nal plants since the area has high snowfall and rain, but burns, muscular pain, bleeding and cancer (Figure 4). because of a lack of proper cultivation knowledge, insti- Many progressive farmers in the study villages were tutional support and planting material, various schemes interested in medicinal plant cultivation and registration for medicinal plant cultivation provided by the govern- with government agencies for cultivation and marketing ment are taken up by only a few families. Medicinal plants of medicinal plants as crops. In this process, farmers can like Saussurea costus, Swertia chirayta, Dactylorrhiza benefit from government schemes for medicinal plant cul- hatagirea, A. heterophyllum, P. kurrooa, Carum carvi, tivation such as loans, subsidies, good-quality planting Angelica glauca and N. grandiflora are still cultivated material and training in appropriate cultivation practices, on the fringes of the forest (encroached land) and agri- while also being free from involvement of middlemen. cultural land by people in some studied villages in the They can cultivate most kinds of crop, including medic- sanctuary. The cost–benefit analysis of cultivation of some inal plants, but not crops banned for cultivation by the important medicinal plants in Uttarakhand is presented in government. There is a ban on illegal collection of medic- Table 2. inal plants from the sanctuary area, not for cultivation. The question-based survey on perceptions of local peo- Cultivation of medicinal plants is also promoted by the ple indicated that the availability of medicinal plants has (%) (%) 102 V.S. Negi et al. Name of disease Figure 4. Frequency of plant species used for treatment of various diseases. –1 Table 2. Cost and benefit (Rs ha ) of some important medicinal plants in Uttarakhand. S. no. Medicinal plant Production (kg/ha) Cultivation cost (Rs) Total income (Rs) Net profit (Rs) 1. Aconitum hetrophyllum 175 kg dry rhizome 100,000.00 262,500.00 162,500.00 2. Picrorhiza kurrooa 1,000 kg dry roots 50,000.00 150,000.00 100,000.00 3. Saussurea costus 3,500 kg dry roots 25,000.00 175,000.00 150,000.00 4. Nardostachys jatamansi 1,250 kg dry roots 125,000.00 187,500.00 62,500.00 5. Swertia chirayita 1,100 kg whole plant 100,000.00 220,000.00 120,000.00 6. Allium stracheyi 250 kg dry leaves 25,000.00 312,500.00 287,500.00 and flowers 7. Carum carvi 250 kg dry seeds 40,000.00 625,000.00 585,000.00 8. Podophyllum hexandrum 440 kg dry rhizome 125,000.00 169,000.00 44,000.00 Source: Herbal Research and Development Institute (HRDI), Gopeshwar, Uttarakhand, India. decreased over the past 10 years. Most plants that were to collection of medicinal plants in the sanctuary because available near a village periphery are now confined to people only collect small quantities, but collection inside the forest ecosystem and alpine meadows. At present, the core zone is prohibited. The traditional values, faith resource-poor people in the region collect plants from the and indigenous knowledge of the healthcare system of the wild in order to complement their meagre incomes and for present society face serious challenges due to migration treatment of various diseases. Due to continued collection of young people to cities, and these urban migrants tend and increasing market demand, numerous plant species are to undermine their own cultural beliefs and knowledge of under threat (Table 1). On the basis of people’s perception, the traditional healthcare system, as also found in other it was found that some plants have disappeared from land parts of Himalayas (Maikhuri et al. 1998b; Kala 2000; Kala surrounding the villages due to land-use disturbance, heavy et al. 2005; Nautiyal et al. 2005; Kala 2007; Phondani livestock grazing, changing climate and illegal harvesting. et al. 2010). In remote areas, where the majority of the People also considered that there was no difference in heal- old generation particularly women are less educated, they ing effect between medicinal plants collected from the wild still possess much knowledge and deep understanding of or from cultivated sources. traditional healthcare. Older people possess more indige- nous knowledge of medicinal plants compared with the young. The effectiveness of medicinal plants also varies between groups (young/old) and is more effective among Discussion younger people. The method for using these plants varies Documentation of indigenous knowledge among age groups according to the nature of the disease People in the studied villages use many plant species col- and specific dose (Phondani 2010). Knowledge of medici- lected from the wild as medicine in the traditional health- nal plants used is mainly restricted to local healers, and it care system. There are no management conflicts pertaining is very important to document this knowledge for future Boils & wounds Snakebites Toothache Stomach disorder Eye disease Ulcer Piles Burns Cough Muscular pain Rheumatism Paralysis Bleeding Diabetes Jaundice Dyspepsia Vomiting Epilepsy Arthritis Bone fracture Menstruation Blood pressure Cuts Leprosy Cancer Heart disoder Skin disease Fever No. of plants used International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management 103 generation, otherwise it will vanish forever. Throughout cultural knowledge and practices, which are increasingly the region there is an urgent need to support, safeguard threatened due to globalisation and homogenisation of peo- and promote cultural and spiritual values of traditional ple (Nautiyal et al. 2005). Similarly, in other parts of medicines. These medicinal plant species collected by the Uttarakhand, due to favourable climatic and soil condi- local people from various locations, for example, kitchen tions in villages of sanctuary, medicinal plant cultivation gardens, agriculture fields and the wild, in a particular has great potential for employment generation, if under- time/season is based on socio-cultural and religious prac- taken properly. As farmers of the area are well aware of tices and they are used as per the methods prescribed by the use and value of medicinal plants, 10–12 species are Vaidhyas. For example, Vaidhyas provide effective cures being cultivated in their kitchen gardens by the Vaidhyas in for ailments using A. heterophyllum collected on Onsh high-altitude villages to meet their own requirements and (no moon day of the waning fortnight) to cure fever and to earn cash by offering treatments in the villages. Farmers stomach ache. need to be encouraged to grow species that have economic In order to maintain and strengthen the traditional potential and are rare and endangered to ensure sustainabil- healthcare system, the Vaidhyas took a keen interest ity of the ecosystem (Maikhuri et al. 2003; Kala 2007) and in developing an association with the Garhwal unit of rejuvenation of traditional healthcare in the region. the G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development for facilitating the main stakeholders and providing an appropriate platform for developing an Linkages of various institutions in medicinal plant association, called Paramparik Gramin Chikitsak Sabha, cultivation Gopeswar, Uttarakhand. This association also plays an active role in revitalising the traditional healthcare sys- Medicinal plant cultivation is required to sustain the tem and conservation of natural medicinal plant resources traditional healthcare system, and various institutions on which Vaidhyas depend for curing ailments, and shar- working in the area of medicinal plant cultivation, ing and protecting the rights of rural communities over for example, the Forest Department, Forest Research indigenous knowledge (Phondani 2010). Therefore, there Institute University, Dehradun; High Altitude Plant is a need to develop an appropriate mechanism for benefits Physiology Research Centre, Srinagar, Garhwal; G.B. Pant sharing and to protect the rights of rural communities over Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants used in their Almora; Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun; Uttarakhand healthcare system, not only in this area but in the entire Parvatiya Aajeevika Savardhan Componey, Dehradun; Himalayan region. National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, Bhowali; Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Nagla; and Herbal Research and Development Cultivation and conservation of medicinal plants Institute (HRDI), Gopeshwar. These all help in medici- Medicinal plants are indispensable for the sustainability of nal plant cultivation through programmes for developing traditional healthcare systems (Kandari 2005). The medici- and disseminating cultivation technologies, setting up nurs- nal plant sector can provide an important source of income eries to propagate and supply planting material to farmers, to rural inhabitants. At present, resource-poor people of training farmers and providing loans and subsidies linked the region collect plants from the wild to complement their to cultivation of medicinal plants for sustainable develop- meagre income. Besides illegal collection, there were many ment. HRDI is a state government institution set up for pro- other threats, such as land-use disturbances, heavy live- motion, conservation and cultivation of medicinal plants. stock grazing and changing climate conditions. Collectors Currently, HRDI and High Altitude Plant Physiology of medicinal plants are primarily interested in increased Research Centre promote medicinal plant cultivation in the incomes over a short time and have no concern for plant Govind Pashu Vihar Sanctuary through disseminating cul- sustainability. The reduction of grazing rights in forests tivation technologies, supplying planting material to the and meadows may enhance plant diversity and ecosys- farmers and conducting research and training programmes tem functioning if grazing pressure is intense (Rao et al. for interested farmers. Therefore, interested/progressive 2003). If disturbances caused by traditional resource uses farmers of the region are benefited from these institutions are moderate, diversity may decline following abandon- in terms of knowledge of cultivation and planting mate- ment of such uses and recuperation of lost diversity may be rial, not only to sustain the traditional healthcare system in a very slow and costly process (Kotiluoto 1998; Stampfli the region, but also as a viable livelihood option. Besides and Zeiter 1999). In the Johar valley in Pithoragarh dis- these institutions, NGOs like the Society for Himalayan trict of Uttarakhand, collectors reported that 5 years ago Environment Research also play a role as catalyst in agri- they were able to collect about 200 g of dry Atish cultural diversification of medicinal plants in the sanctuary (A. heterophyllum) in 1 day, but now they collect less than villages through a ‘learning by doing’ approach. HRDI –1 70–100 g day (Belt et al. 2003; Alam and Belt 2004). provides loans and subsidies for cultivation of medicinal The conversion of socio-cultural traditions and indigenous plants and also has registered farmers for cultivation of knowledge into livelihood means and economic opportu- medicinal plants so that they can market their crops with nities also has the advantage of preserving rapidly eroding the help of the institute without involvement of middlemen. 104 V.S. Negi et al. Below are some recommendations for promotion of Acknowledgements medicinal plant cultivation and conservation for sustain- The authors thank the director of the G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Kosi-Katarmal, ability of traditional healthcare in the sanctuary: Almora, Uttarakhand, India, for providing facilities to undertake this work. We are also thankful to DST/SSD for providing finan- � Medicinal plant cultivation on restored lands could cial support to conduct the study. We thank the people in the study be encouraged under a management action plan to area for their kind cooperation during the fieldwork. increase people’s participation and improve the local economy. � Proper documentation of ethnobotanical/indigenous References knowledge of medicinal plants. Alam G, Belt J. 2004. 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Journal

International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management – Taylor & Francis

Published: Dec 1, 2010

Keywords: traditional healthcare system; Vaidhyas; conservation; livelihood; medicinal plants; indigenous knowledge

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