Ethnobotanical perspective of antimalarial plants: traditional knowledge based study

Area of Science:

• Ethnobotany
• Medicinal Plant Research
• Geographical Health

Background:

• Growing demand for antimalarial plants necessitates their identification and sustainable sourcing.
• Traditional Knowledge Systems (TKS) offer valuable insights into plant-based malaria treatments.
• Understanding the spatial distribution of medicinal plants is crucial for geographical health assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document and validate plants with antimalarial properties used by local communities.
• To assess the significance and characteristics of traditional knowledge regarding malaria treatment.
• To analyze the geographical distribution of these antimalarial plants.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and field data collection from 85 respondents across different ethnic groups.
• Ethno-medicinal data compilation including botanical details, usage, and geographical locations.
• Graphical and mathematical analysis of plant families, parts used, and TKS preferences using plant indices.

Main Results:

• Fifty-one plant species from 27 families were identified with their geographical attributes.
• Plant roots (31.75%) are the most frequently used part, with decoction being the primary administration mode (41.2%).
• Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Acanthaceae, and Amaranthaceae are dominant families; Adhatoda vasica, Cassia fistula, and Swertia chirata are popular species, with 82.0% TKS usage for malaria cure.

Conclusions:

• Research findings facilitate sustainable bio-discovery of natural antimalarial resources for scientific and community use.
• Identified plants can serve as potential lead molecules for drug discovery.
• Empowers rural communities to meet local malaria treatment needs through scientifically validated traditional knowledge.