Indigenous medicinal plant knowledge of the Santal ethnic group in Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj Districts of Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: The Santal community is one of the largest indigenous groups in Bangladesh and has a long history of using plants to treat different illnesses. The main objective of the study was to record the medicinal plants used by the Santal people of the Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj districts of Bangladesh. Systemic documentation aims to preserve indigenous knowledge and support health promotion and disease prevention.

Methods: Information was collected through interviews with local healers and community members.

Results: In total, 61 plant species from 39 families were identified to cure 49 diseases. Leaves were found to be most frequently used part owing to 54.38%, followed by roots, barks, stems, fruits, and flowers. These plants are used to treat common problems like diarrhea dysentery, stomach pain, jaundice, cold and cough, skin infections, and women’s health issues. The study shows that the Santal people have valuable knowledge about local plants.

Conclusions: However, this traditional knowledge is slowly disappearing because of modern lifestyle changes and a lack of interest among younger people. This research highlights the importance of protecting both the plants and the traditional knowledge for future generations.

Keywords: Santal community, ethnomedicinal plants, traditional knowledge, Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj