Describe major Ethnomedicinal plants of Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. (HPAS Mains Question Paper 2022 – GS 3, Q.14)
The Himachal Pradesh district of Chamba is rich in biodiversity and home to a variety of medicinal plants that have been used by local communities for centuries. The following are some of the most critical ethnomedicinal plants found in the Chamba district:
- Valeriana jatamansi: Also known as “muskroot” or “jatamansi” in its native Indonesia, this plant has soothing properties and is used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other nervous disorders.
- Berberis aristata: Also known as “daruhaldi,” this plant has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat skin infections, fever, and digestive problems.
- Aconitum heterophyllum, also known as “artist,” is a plant with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that is used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation.
- Picrorhiza kurroa: This plant, also known as “kutki,” has hepatoprotective properties and is used to treat liver disorders and digestive issues.
- Rubia cordifolia: Also known as “manjistha” in India, this plant has antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat skin conditions, menstrual problems, and urinary tract infections.
- Swertia chirata: Also known as “chirality,” this plant is used to treat fever, diabetes, and digestive disorders. It has antipyretic, bitter tonic, and antidiabetic properties.
- Withania somnifera: Also known as “ashwagandha,” this plant is used to treat stress, anxiety, and fatigue. It has adaptogenic, anxiolytic, and immunomodulatory properties.
These ethnomedicinal plants have traditionally been used by local communities in the Chamba district for their therapeutic properties, and their potential in modern medicine has piqued the interest of researchers and scientists. It is important to note, however, that using these plants for medicinal purposes should be done under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.