Ethnobotanical knowledge and utilization patterns of plant species in two districts of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Abstract

Background: Despite the rich floristic diversity of the Kashmir Himalaya, comprehensive information encompassing multiple categories of plant use remains limited. The present study aimed to document the floristic diversity, ethnobotanical uses, plant parts utilized, conservation status, and quantitative importance of useful plant species in the region.

Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted between 2018 and 2024 using open-ended semi-structured interviews with 75 respondents representing different age groups, genders, educational backgrounds, and occupations. Plant specimens were collected and identified following standard taxonomic procedures. Quantitative ethnobotanical analysis was performed using Frequency of Citation (FC) and Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC).

Results: Overall, seventy-seven medicinal plant species distributed in 40 families were found to be used by communities for treating over 67 diseases. The most commonly used medicinal plants included Prunus africana (12), Hoslundia opposita (11), Bidens pilosa (11), Conyza sumatrensis (9) and Ageratum conyzoides (9). The family of Asteraceae and Fabaceae made up most of the medicinal plant species used by the natives. The most used plant parts are the leaves, and boiling water is the main solvent used in the preparation of these herbal remedies, which are taken mainly orally.

Conclusions: The study highlights the rich ethnobotanical heritage of the Kashmir Himalaya and demonstrates the continued dependence of local communities on plant resources for healthcare and livelihood support.

Keywords: Kashmir Himalaya; Ethnobotany; Threatened species; Utilization pattern; Conservation