Int. J. Med. Arom.

Plants, ISSN 2249 4340

RESEARCH ARTICLE
Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 53-59, March 2012
*Corresponding author: (E-mail) rkvashistha78<A.T.>gmail.com http://www.openaccessscience.com
2012 Open Access Science Research Publisher ijmap@openaccessscience.com
Ethnomedicinal importance of the Plants of Amarkantak
region, Madhya Pradesh, India
Anupam SRIVASTAVA, Shambhu P. PATEL, Rajesh K. MISHRA, Rajiv K. VASHISTHA*,
Ajay SINGH, Ashok K. PUSKAR
Ayurveda Research and Development Department, Patanjali Yogpeeth, Maharishi Dayanand Gram, Near
Bahadrabad, Haridwar- 249405, Uttarakhand, India
Article History: Received 14
th
December 2011, Revised 19
th
January 2012, Accepted 19
th
January 2012.
Abstract: The present study was carried out in the Amarkantak, region of Madhya Pradesh, India, to document the ethno
medicinal uses of plants. A total of 135 species belonging to 115 genera and 63 families have been reported. Plant spe-
cies commonly used by local people for food, fodder, medicine and in other fields of their lives are enumerated. A list of
plant species along with their local names, plant parts used and mode of application has been given. Ethnomedicinally
most important families are Zingiberaceae and Fabaceae with 8 species followed by Rubiaceae, Vitaceae and Liliaceae
with 7 species. These plant species are utilized by local peoples against various ailments such as cuts and wounds, fever,
joints pain, constipation, diarrhoea, eye disorders, skin ailments, cough and cold, antidote for poisonous insects, stomach
disorders, urinary troubles, liver complaints, digestive problems, jaundice, asthma, bronchitis, etc. Indigenous knowledge
of rural or cultural groups has great significance in formulating applicable strategy for the development of any region.
This scattered, secretive, fast eroding highly valuable knowledge needs proper documentation. The present study signi-
fies ethnomedicinal values of the plants species occur in Amarkantak region.
Keywords: Ethnomedicinal survey; Amarkantaka, indigenous knowledge; herbs and medicine.
Introduction
Amarkantak is known as an immense holy
pilgrim centre for the Hindus and is the origin
place of the rivers Narmada and Sone, situated
in Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh, India.
It is located between 2244' North latitude and
8154' East longitude, at the meeting point of
the Vindhya and the Satpura mountain ranges
amongst sylvan surroundings, at an altitude of
1065 m asl. The Narmada River flows to the
west from Amarkantak whereas the Sone flows
towards the East. Amarkantak is glorified by
nature having various holy ponds and elevated
hills. The entire forest area, exquisite waterfalls
and rich biodiversity make this place a great
destination for both religious-minded people
and the researchers.
Floristic survey in this state has been under-
taken by Jain (1962), Bhalla et al. (1986), Jain
(1988), Jayson (1991), Jain and Patole (2001),
Jain and Vairale (2007), Dubey et al. (2008 a
and b), Wagh and Jain (2010), Kala (2010 and
2011) etc. Information published on the utiliza-
tion of plant species by these workers did not
cover all the species present in the area. The
present exploration has resulted in gathering in-
formation on plants used as medicine and in re-
ligious practices.
Materials and Methods
Field study was conducted in the Amarkan-
tak near Narmada Kund and temple, Sonemuda,
Mai ki Bagiya, Kapil Dhara, Kabir Chabutra,
Doodhdhara, Shambudhara, Bhagdnala and Shri
Jwaleshwar Mahadev and their adjacent areas
during the year 2010 - 2011. Ethnomedicinal
information on the plant species was collected
through interviewing local communities. The
informants were Vaidhyas, Priests and village
headmen. The main tribal groups in this region
are Gond, Bhil, Baiga, Korku, Bhadia, Hal-
ba, Kaul, Mariya who commonly communicate
through Hindi, Bagheli, Bundeli and Chatisgadi.
A structured questionnaire was used to collect
data on local plant names, uses, parts used, and
mode of application. Recorded plant species
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were identified with the help of Herbarium of
the Botanical Survey of India, Northern Circle,
Dehradun (BSD), local floras and previous
works of Hooker (1875), Kirtikar and Basu
(1999), Dubey et al. (2008 a and b). The vouch-
er specimens have been deposited in the Patan-
jali Yogpeeth, Haridwar.
Result and Discussion
The present communication documented
135 plant species belonging to 61 families under
115 genera that are being traditionally used in
the area. The herbal remedies are effective
against cuts and wounds, fever, joint pain, head-
ache, constipation, diarrhoea, eye disorders, skin
ailments, cough and cold, antidote for poisonous
insects, stomach disorders, urinary troubles, liv-
er complaints, digestive problems, jaundice,
asthma, bronchitis, inflammations and anemia,
piles, mental disorder, abdominal pain and bone
fracture, paralysis, epilepsy, impotency, general
weakness etc. In general, Adiantum philippense,
Asparagus racemosus, Pueraria tuberosa, Cos-
tus speciosus, Terminalia chebula are used in
the treatment of leprosy. Eryngium foetidum and
Antidesma zeylanicum are used in snake bite,
Terminalia chebula, Elaeocarpus sphaericus
and Caesalpinia bonduc are used for the treat-
ment of jaundice. Clerodendron serratum, Cur-
cuma angustifolia, Sida cordata, Celastrus pa-
niculatus are used for the treatment of leuco-
derma (Table 1). Among the selected species
ethnomedicinally the maximum contribution
was recorded for herbs with 70 species (52%)
followed by trees with 26 species (19%), shrubs
with 22 species (16%) and climbers with 16
species (12%, Figure 1). Among the selected
species, parts used wise contribution was max-
imum for whole plant with 42 species (31%)
followed by roots with 31 species (23%), leaves
with 30 species (22%), bark with 20 species
(15%) and seeds with 5 species (4%, Figure 2).
This survey revealed that the tribal and other
inhabitants of the area have sound knowledge
about the uses of medicinal plants available in
the region. Unfortunately, the tribal communi-
ties are not concerned to share their traditional
knowledge with others and their knowledge is
limited with their own community and ends
with the end of their life. In the present study, a
brief account on ethnomedicinal uses of docu-
mented plant species has been verified by Vaid-
hyas, knowledgeable persons and experienced
informant of the area, even then further explora-
tion on pharmaceuticals, therapeutic as well as
safety features like toxicity studies are very
much required for human benefit and sustaining
the knowledge of tribal communities.
Table 1: Ethnomedicinally important species in Amarkantaka region, MP.
S.No. Botanical name Local name Family Habit Uses
1. Abelmoschus moschatus Medik. Kasturi
bhindi
Malvaceae H A paste of its leaves is applied on the cuts, wounds and sprains. Seeds are
used in aromatherapy for the treatment of depression and anxiety, cramps,
poor circulation and aching joint.
2. Abrus precatorius Linn. Ghumchi Fabaceae C Seeds are used in cellulites, gangrene, gastritis, nephritis, ulcers, typhoid and
cholera.
3. Acanthospermum hispidum DC. Gokharu Asteraceae H Paste of whole plants is used to treat skin disease and leaf juice is used to
relieve fever.
4. Adina cordifolia (Willd. ex
Roxb.)Hook.f.ex Brandis
Haldu Rubiaceae T Stem bark is used in malarial fever, abdominal disorder, inflammation,
wounds and ulcers.
5. Adiantum philippense Linn. Hansraj Adiantaceae H Full teaspoon of its extract of whole plant is used in fever, asthma, bronchi-
tis, dysentery, leprosy and ulcers. Powder of rhizome is given as an antidote
against dog bite and snake bite.
6. Allium tuberosum Roxb. Ban lahsun Liliaceae H The leaves and bulbs are applied to insect bites, cuts, and wounds, while the
seeds are used to treat kidney, liver, and upset digestive system.
7. Alternanthera sessilis (Linn.) R.Br. ex
DC.
Gudari shak Amaranthaceae H The whole plant is used for burning sensation, diarrhoea, skin disease, dys-
pepsia, hemorrhoids, liver and spleen diseases and fever.
8. Alternenthera pungens Kunth. Katua shak Amaranthaceae H Decoction of its leaves is taken to treat gonorrhea.
9. Amaranthus spinosus Linn. Chaulai Amaranthaceae H Traditionally, leaves are used to treat scorpion sting and snake bite.
10. Ammomum aromaticum Roxb. Kali elaichi Zingiberaceae H Decoction of whole plants is used as a gargle in dental or gum problems. Its
seed oil is used in vomiting, indigestion, abdomen pain and rectal disease.
11. Ampelocissus tomentosa
(Roth.)Planch.
Ulat bel ,
Bamaru
Vitaceae C It is used for the treatment of dysentery, fever, fistula and tuberculosis.
12. Antidesma zeylanicum Lam. Amti Euphorbiaceae S Leaves are used as a antidote for snake bite.
13. Antigonon leptopus Hook. & Arn. Polygonaceae Climbing
shrub
Paste of fresh leaves applied externally in skin disorders.
14. Aresaema tortuosum (Wall.) Schott Ban makka,
Sigta kanda
Araceae H Tubers are taken with black pepper in cold and cough.
15. Asparagus racemosus Willd. Satavar Liliaceae C Roots are used for the treatment of nervous disorders, diarrhoea, dysentery,
tumor, inflammation, tuberculosis, leprosy, fatigue.
16. Basella rubra Linn. Poi Basellaceae C Leaf juice is useful in biliousness, dysentery and leprosy. A paste of root
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applied in swelling.
17. Begonia sps. Begoniaceae H Its leaves used as a tea in cold and cough.
18. Begonia picta Linn. Patharchatta Begoniaceae H The juice of the whole plant is taken to relieve headaches. The crushed
leaves are used as a poultice on sore nipples. The root juice is used as eye-
wash to treat conjunctivitis. It is also consumed in the treatment of peptic
ulcers.
19. Belamcanda chinensis (Linn.) DC. Tiger lily Iridaceae H It is used in the treatment of acute laryngitis, acute tonsillitis, oedema of the
glottis and cough with profuse sputum. Root juice is used to treat liver com-
plaints.
20. Bergenia sps. Patharchur Saxifragaceae H A juice or powder of the whole plant is used to treat urinary troubles. The
root is used in the treatment of fever.
21. Boerhavia procumbens Banks ex
Roxb.
Bishkhapra,
Patharchata
Nyctaginaceae H Infusion of the herb is useful in dropsy, menstrual flow regulation & gonorr-
hoea.
22. Bridelia montana Willd. Ekdaniya Euphorbiaceae T Bark and roots are used in the treatment of worm infection and bone fracture.
23. Bridelia retusa (Linn.) Spreng. Kasai, Ja-
malvati
Phyllanthaceae T The bark is useful in lumbago and hemiplegia and bark is also used for the
treatment of rheumatism and diabetes.
24. Butea superba Roxb. Chi-
ula,Palash
bel
Fabaceae C The seeds are used for the treatment of herpes, skin disease, ringworm, round
worm, arthritis, flatulence and constipation.
25. Caesalpinia bonduc (Linn.) Roxb.
emend. Dandy & Exell.
Ga-
tayan,Sagar
gota
Caesalpinia-
ceae
S The leaves, seeds and roots are used for the treatment of amenorrhea, dysme-
norrhea, fever, cough, worms, dyspepsia, jaundice and arthritis.
26. Carissa opaca Stapf ex Haines Jangali
karaunda
Apocynaceae S Leaves are useful in cardiac disorders. Fruits are also used in digestive prob-
lems.
27. Casuarina equesetifolia Linn. Banya suru Casuarinaceae T Its bark and woods are used in beri-beri, colic, cough, diarrhoea, dysentery,
headache, pimples, sore, stomachache, swelling and toothache. Seeds are also
used in bloody diarrhoea.
28. Catunaregam nilotica (Stapf) Tir-
veng.
Kharhar,
Gadpidar
Rubiaceae S Decoction of seeds is used in headache. Its stem bark is used in treating joints
and muscles affections.
29. Catunaregam spinosum (Thunb.)
Tiryeng.
Mainhar Rubiaceae S Bark is used internally for fever and insomnia and used externally for rheu-
matism and bruises. Roots are used for the treatment of gonorrhea, diarrhoea,
colic, fever and phlegmatic swelling.
30. Cayratia auriculata (Wall.)Gamble Jangali
angoor
Vitaceae C The plant is useful in cough, cold, hydrocele, wound, abscess, intestinal
worm and rheumatism.
31. Cayratia trifolia (Linn.) Domin. Tripatti Vitaceae C The root grounded with black pepper is applied to boils.
32. Celastrus paniculatus Willd. Malkangani Celastraceae C Seeds are useful in abdominal disorders, leprosy, skin diseases, paralysis,
asthma, leucoderma, cardiac debility, inflammation, amenorrhoea, dysme-
norrhoea and fever and for stimulating the intellect and sharpening the mem-
ory.
33. Celtis australis Linn. Khirk Ulmaceae T Decoction of both leaves and fruit is used in the treatment of amenorrhea,
heavy menstrual and intermenstrual bleeding and colic.
34. Ceiba pentendra (Linn.) Gaertn. Safed Sem-
al, Semra
Bombacaceae T Root decoction is used in diarrhoea and dysentery. Stem bark decoction is
used in mouth wash for treating toothache and mouth problems, and is taken
to treat stomach problems, diarrhoea, hernia, gonorrhea, heart trouble, oede-
ma, fever, asthma and rickets.
35. Centella asiatica (Linn.) Urban Mandukpar-
ni
Apiaceae H Whole plant is used as brain tonic and in nervine disorders. A poultice of
leaves is used to treat open sores.
36. Chlorophytum arundinaceum Baker Safed musli Liliaceae H Roots are used in diabetes, spermaturia, leucorrhea and general weakness.
37. Chrysalidocarpus lutescens H.
Wendl.
Areca palm Arecaceae T Paste of stem bark and leaf is useful in wound healing and peptic ulcers.
Root bark and fruit is used for arthritis and fractures.
38. Clematis smilacifolia Wall. Gajprasarni Ranunculaceae C Leaves are useful in cold.
39. Clerodendrum indicum (Linn.)
Kuntze
Bharangi Verbenaceae H The roots and bark of its plant is used to treat cough, cold bronchitis, hic-
cough and asthma.
40. Clerodendrum philippinum Schauer Bhant Verbenaceae H The plant is used externally as a poultice, for rheumatism. Decoction of
leaves used for scabies.
41. Clerodendrum serratum (Linn.)
Moon
Bhran-
gi,Babhaneti
Verbenaceae H It is used for the treatment of inflammation, anorexia, dyspepsia, flatulence,
cough, asthma, bronchitis, hiccough, leucoderma, leprosy and fever.
42. Coleus forskohlii Briq. Garmar Lamiaceae H The plant is used in fever, burning sensation, inflammation, muscular spasm,
hypertension, diabetes, cardiac debility, allergy and bronchial asthma.
43. Colocasia esculenta (Linn.) Schott. Ghuia, Ruia Araceae H Tuber is used to treat constipation, stomatitis, hemorrhoids, cancer and gen-
eral weakness.
44. Commelina diffusa Burm.f. Kanchat,
Kankana
Commelina-
ceae
H The plant in used by tribes in fever and inflammation. Leaf-sap used for
abscesses and headache.
45. Cordia macleodii (Griff.) Hook. f. &
Thoms.
Dahiman Boraginaceae T The bark is used for the treatment of jaundice.
46. Costus speciosus (Koen. ex Retz.)
Sm.
Kev-
kand,kebuk
Zingiberaceae H Rhizomes are useful in burning sensation, constipation, leprosy, worm infec-
tion, skin diseases, fever, asthma, bronchitis, inflammations and anemia.
47. Crossandra infundibuliformis (Linn.)
Nees
Lalmurga Acanthaceae H Flowers are grounded with pepper and the paste is applied for wounds.
48. Curculigo capitulata (Lour.) Kuntze. Jangali
musasli
Liliaceae H Paste of fresh rhizome is used to stop the bleeding of a cut area. Some time
dried rhizome powder is directly used on boils for quick healing.
49. Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. Kali musali Liliaceae H Roots are useful in piles, fatigue, blood disorders and general weakness.
50. Curcuma amada Roxb. Amahaldi Zingiberaceae H Commonly used to treat pimples, acne and black heads and also used for the
treatment of inflammatory conditions and leprosy.
51. Curcuma angustifolia Roxb. Tikhur Zingiberaceae H It is used traditionally in indigestion, skin diseases, cough, bronchitis, allergy,
leucoderma, and as general tonic. It is extremely beneficial in diarrhoea,
dysentery and colitis.
52. Curcuma aromatica Salisb. Jangali haldi Zingiberaceae H It is used to treat gastrointestinal and upper respiratory disorders, along with
headache, and skin inflammation and infection.
53. Cymbopogon schoenanthus (Linn.)
Spreng.
Rousaghash Poaceae H Tea from leaves is used (1-4 cups per day) to relieve congestion, coughing,
bladder disorders, headaches, fever, stomach aches, digestive problems,
diarrhoea, gas, bowel spasms, vomiting, and flu symptoms.
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54. Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forsk. Kamraj Boraginaceae H Its root is used for the treatment of eye troubles and also used in fever.
55. Cyperus platyphylluss Roem. &
Schult.
Jalmotha,
Jalmustak
Cyperaceae H It is used for the treatment of fever and abdomen disease.
56. Dillenia pentagyna Roxb. (corcat) Korkat,
Shalyakrni
Dilleniaceae T The plant is used to treat wounds, fistula, diabetic carbuncle, pneumonia and
burning sensation.
57. Dioscorea bulbifera Linn. Khanima
kand, Gethi
kand
Dioscoreaceae C Tubers are used in jaundice, dysentery, madness, abdominal pain and bone
fracture.
58. Dioscorea hispida Dennst. Baichadi,
Kirchi kand
Dioscoreaceae C Tubers are used in ulcer to kill worms in wounds and also used in whitlow,
sores, boils and bites of rabbit, jackal or dog.
59. Duranta repens Linn. Neelkanta Verbenaceae S Fruits are used in fever and intestinal worms. Leaves used for treatment of
abscesses.
60. Elephantopus scaber Linn. Gojihva,
Ranchi
Asteraceae H Roots and leaves are used for dysuria, diarrhoea, dysentery, swelling and
stomach pain. Leaves are also used in applications for eczema and ulcers.
61. Elaeocarpus sphaericus (Gaertn.)
K.Schum.
Rudraksha Elaeocarpaceae T It is used in mental disorders, nervine disease, headache, hypertension, liver
problems, jaundice, fever and blood disease.
62. Emilia sonchifolia (Linn.) DC. Hirankhuri Asteraceae H Fresh whole plant juice is given in the dose of 5 10 ml daily for three days
to cure intestinal worms. The decoction of the whole plant is very effective
for fever.
63. Embelia ribes Burm. f. Vaibidang,
Bevrang
Myrsinaceae S Fruits are useful in piles, sore throat and dyspepsia.
64. Eryngium foetidum Linn. Jangali
dhania
Apiaceae H The plant is used for treatment of burns, earache, fever, hypertension, con-
stipation, fits, asthma, stomach ache, worms, infertility complications, snake
bites, diarrhoea and malaria.
65. Euphorbia pulcherrima Willd. ex
Klotzsch
Ponsetia Euphorbiaceae S Used in skin diseases and warts.
66. Evolvulus alsinoides (Linn.) Linn. Neeli
sankhpushpi
Convolvula-
ceae
H The leaves are used in chronic bronchitis and asthma. The root is used for
childhood fever, and the oil stimulates the growth of hair. Using the whole
plant in the form of a decoction with cumin and milk is used to treat fever.
67. Evolvulus nummularius (Linn.) Linn. Musakani,
Bhuichipki
Convolvula-
ceae
H Whole plant is used to treat paralysis, epilepsy, convulsions, and spasm.
68. Ficus racemosa Linn. Gular, Ubar Moraceae T The decoction prepared form the bark of the tree is used in the treatment of
syphilis.
69. Ficus semicordata Ham. ex J.E. Sm. Ghei, Khi-
unau
Moraceae T A bath made from the fruit and bark is a cure for leprosy. The root juice is
given in bladder complaints; fresh stem applied on tiger-bite to avoid septic.
70. Flemingia macrophylla (Willd.) Prain
ex Merrill
Bara, Bara
salpan
Fabaceae S Root juice of this plant along with tuber of Staphania japonica is used to
treat asthma. Powder of the root is used in the treatment of menstrual irregu-
larities.
71. Galactia tenuiflora (Willd.) Wight
& Arn.
Mashpatri Fabaceae H Its leaf and seeds are very useful in worm infection.
72. Gardenia latifolia Ait. Papda,
Paniha
Rubiaceae T This plant is used to treat skin disease, diarrhoea and dysentery.
73. Flemingia nana Roxb. Mankand Fabaceae S Its roots are used for the treatment of ulcers and swellings.
74. Glochidion lanceolarium (Roxb.)
Dalz.
Kaluchua Euphorbiaceae T The bark is given in stomach ailments. Extract of aerial parts is used to cure,
hypertension and hypoglycaemia.
75. Grewia hirsuta Vahl Gurshakri,
Kukurand
Tiliaceae S Its root powder (3 gm) is useful along with milk in weakness. Its juice is also
helpful in healing. In cardiac disorders, its root powder is useful with Arjuna
powder. In diarrhoea, decoction of its leaves is useful.
76. Grewia tiliaefolia Vahl Dhankat,
Dharman
Tiliaceae T The herb is used in cough and bronchitis. Gum is also used for infections of
upper respiratory tract.
77. Hydrangea macrophylla (Thunb.)
Ser.
Saxifragaceae S Leaves, roots and flowers of its plant is used to treat fever, inflammation and
urinary problems.
78. Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides Lam. Khulkhuri Apiaceae H The juice of the plant is used in the treatment of fevers. A paste made from
the plant is applied externally to wounds and boils. Decoction of whole plant
used in the treatment of abscesses, boils, cirrhosis, cold, cough, hepatitis,
itching, jaundice, sinusitis and sore throat.
79. Hygrophila auriculata (K. Schum.)
Heine
Talmakha-
na, Kulia
kanta
Acanthaceae H Leaves are useful in the cough and urethral discharges, diarrhoea, dysentery,
thirst, urinary calculi, urinary discharges, inflammations, anemia and consti-
pation. Seeds are useful in the venereal diseases. Decoction of the root is
used as a diuretic in dropsy.
80. Hyptis suaveolens (Linn.) Poit. Bilayti tulsi,
Dona
Lamiaceae H Extracts of its plant used to treat skin disease.
81. Impatiens balsamina Linn. Gulmehndi Balsaminaceae H It is used for the treatment of inflammation, burns, ulcers, constipation, arth-
ritis and urinary retention.
82. Ixora coccinea Linn. Rukmani Rubiaceae S The plant is used to treat skin diseases, colic, flatulence, diarrhoea, indiges-
tion, ulcers and wounds.
83. Jatropha curcas Linn. Vyaghra
erand
Euphorbiaceae S The stems of young leaves useful in urinary infections. Tea made from the
bark of Jatropha is useful in rheumatism leprosy, fevers and will also help
with jaundice and gonorrhea.
84. Jatropha podagrica Hook. Jangali
arandi
Euphorbiaceae S The seed oil of the plant used for the treatment of rheumatism, itching, skin
disease, fever, jaundice and gonorrhea.
85. Lannea coromandelica (Houtt.) Merr. Gurja, Sa-
bayakarni,
Jhingan
Anacardiaceae T Decoction of bark used in toothache, wounds, bruises, sores, ulcers and sore
eyes.
86. Leea crispa Linn. Vanchalita Vitaceae S The leaves paste useful in wounds.
87. Leea macrophyla Roxb. ex Hornem. Hathphan,
Hathikan
Vitaceae S It is applied externally to treat pain and to stop the effusion of blood.
88. Leea robusta Roxb. Haramacha Vitaceae S Root paste useful in body ache.
89. Leonotis nepetaiefolia R. Br. Ukmad,
Bara guma
Lamiaceae H The leaves used for the treatment of fever and cough. It is also used in case of
a snake bite.
90. Leucas aspera Spreng. Guma Lamiaceae H Leaf juice applied in scabies, psoriasis and skin ailments.
91. Litsea glutinosa (Lour.) C.B.Robins. Maida, Jor, Lauraceae T Poultice of roots and leaves used for sprains and bruises. Leaves are used for
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Menda diarrhoea and dysentery. Decoction of bark applied on sores and scabies.
92. Ludwigia prostrata Roxb. Bhulabang Onagraceae S Leaves of its plant used in toothache.
93. Lygodium flexuosum (Linn.)Sw. Badi bhulan,
Kali bhulan
Lygodiaceae H Infusion of the plant is used in menorrhagia. Fresh plant juice used in insect
bite. The fresh root boiled with mustard oil is applied externally in rheumat-
ism, sprains, scabies, ulcers, eczema, cut and wounds. It is particularly useful
as a local application to carbuncles.
94. Mariscus sumatrensis (Retz.) J.
Raynal.
Jungli mo-
tha
Cyperaceae H Stem bark of its plant is used in gonorrhea and wound.
95. Michelia champaca Linn. Champa Magnoliaceae T Flowers are used to reduce burning sensation, cure skin disease and ulcer.
Decoction of its bark used in amenorrhea.
96. Mimosa pudica Linn. Chuimui,
Lajbanti
Mimosaceae H It is very useful in diarrhoea, amoebic dysentery and bleeding piles and also
used in bronchitis, gynecological disorders, and general weakness and impo-
tence.
97. Mirabilis jalapa Linn. Gulabbas Nyctaginaceae H A decoction of leaves is used to treat abscesses. Leaf juice used to treat
wounds. Roots are used in inflammation and dropsy.
98. Opuntia dilleni Haw. Kanthari,
Nagphani
Cactaceae S The plant is used to treat asthma, whooping cough, fever, constipation, con-
junctivitis, boils, ulcers, edema, leucorrhoea and menorrhagia.
99. Ougeinia oojeinensis (Roxb.) Hochr. Tinlsa,
Raktal,
Shadan
Fabaceae T Bark of its plant is used to treat diarrhoea and dysentery.
100. Oxalis corniculata Linn. Tinpatiya Oxalidaceae H Whole plant used in dyspepsia, hemorrhoids, dysentery, diarrhoea, dysme-
norrhoea, amenorrhoea, hepatitis and burning sensation.
101. Pandanus odoratissimus Roxb. Kevda,
Keora
Pandanaceae T The plant is used to treat skin disease, headache, earache, wounds, flatulence,
colic, arthritis, cervical spondylitis, fever, diabetes, infertility, habitual abor-
tion and general debility.
102. Passiflora edulis Sims. Rakhiphul Passifloraceae H Flower of its plant is used in insomnia, anxiety and nervous disorders.
103. Piper longum Linn. Pippali Piperaceae H The fruits and roots used for the treatment of cough, bronchitis and asthma.
Applied locally for muscular pains and inflammation, in dysentery and lepro-
sy.
104. Polygonum hydropiper Linn. Gondali Polygonaceae H Decoction of the whole plant used in the treatment of diarrhoea, dyspepsia,
itching, excessive menstrual bleeding and hemorrhoids, poultice of the plant
is used in treating swollen and inflamed areas.
105. Psoralea corylifolia Linn. Babchi,
Bakuchi
Fabaceae H It is used in the treatment of febrile diseases, premature ejaculation, impo-
tence, lower back pains, frequent urination, incontinence, bed wetting.
106. Pueraria tuberosa (Roxb. ex Willd.)
DC.
Bidarikand,
Patal kohda
Fabaceae C Tubers are used in the treatment of constipation, dysuria, cough, rheumatism,
erysipelas, malarial fever, sexual problems and general weakness. The root is
used for treating dental caries. It is also used externally to treat various skin
ailments including leprosy, leucoderma and hair loss.
107. Radermachera xylocarpa (Roxb.) K.
Schum.
Garun brik-
sha, Jay-
mangal
Bignoniaceae T It is used to treat skin disease and abdominal disorders. Its fruit is also used
in snake bite.
108. Remusatia vivipara (Roxb.) Schott Laxman
kand
Araceae H Tuber is used for the treatment of cancer and arthritic pain.
109. Rubia cordifolia Linn. Manjistha Rubiaceae C The roots are used to treat rheumatism, ulcers, inflammation, skin disease,
leucoderma, diarrhoea, dysentery, chronic fever and urinary problems.
110. Ruta graveolens Linn. Sitab Rutaceae H This plant is used for worm infections, spasmodic pain, epilepsy and ame-
norrhoea.
111. Sauromatum venosum (W. Ait.)
Kunth
Bhasm kand Araceae H The paste of tuber is applied on the affected part in case of snake bite
112. Scoparia dulcis Linn. Mithibuti Scrophularia-
ceae
H Leaves are used in treatment of fever, cough, bronchitis and dental trouble.
Leaves and stems are also used for diabetes.
113. Semecarpus anacardium Linn.f. Bhilava,
Bhelma
Anacardiaceae T The oil of its fruit mixed with coconut oil, is applied on wounds and sore to
prevent the pus formation. Internally the plant is used to treat piles, colitis,
diarrhoea, dyspepsia, sciatica, paralysis, epilepsy, rheumatic condition and
worms.
114. Sida cordata (Burm. f.) Borssum Rajbala,
Vishkhapri
Malvaceae H Leaves are used for the treatment of bleeding piles, rheumatism, and gonorr-
hea. Infusion of its root is very useful in cystitis, strangury, haematuria,
chronic dysentery, leucorrhoea, and gonorrhoea.
115. Smilax zeylanica Linn. Chop chini Liliaceae C The plant is used to treat insanity, colic, diarrhoea, syphilis, gonorrhoea,
leucorrhea, arthritis, fever, impotency, skin disease and general weakness.
116. Solanum indicum Linn. Badi kateri Solanaceae S The root is used for bronchitis, itching, body aches and toothache. A decoc-
tion of its root juice and leaves used in ring worms, gout and earache.
117. Solanum violaceum Ortega. Ban bhanta,
Anjad
Solanaceae S It is useful in asthma, dry cough and chronic febrile infections.
118. Spathiphyllum wallisii Regal Safed antu-
rum
Araceae H It is used for the treatment of constipation, bronchitis, eczema, psoriasis and
diabetes.
119. Spermacoce hispida Linn. Madanghan-
ti
Rubiaceae H Decoction of the plant used for arthritis, colic, dyspepsia and general debility.
120. Stachytarpheta indica (Linn.) Vahl Kariyartha-
rani
Verbenaceace H Decoction of leaves used for intestinal worms. Bruised leaves rubbed in
sprain and bruises. Infusion of roots used for gonorrhoea.
121. Sterculia urens Roxb. Kullu, Kate-
ra Gond
Sterculiaceae T Bark used for constipation, liver disease and skin disorders.
122. Swertia angustifolia Buch.- Ham ex
D. Don.
Pahari
chirayata
Gentianaceae H Its leaves are used to treat fever, abdominal disorders, nausea, indigestion,
constipation, dyspepsia, skin disease, cancer and liver.
123. Tacca leontopetaloides (Linn.) O.
Kuntze
Mitha teliya
kand
Taccaceae H Tuber of its plant used for stomach problems, diarrhoea and dysentery.
124. Terminalia alata Heyne ex Roth Saaja ,
Sadad
Combretaceae T The bark of its plant is used in diarrhoea.
125. Terminalia chebula (Gaertn.) Retz. Harre, Harra Combretaceae T Harra is used for the treatment of anorexia, cough, hiccough, flatulence,
hemorrhoids, jaundice, renal calculi, epilepsy, intermittent fever, leprosy,
cardiac disorders, somatitis, wound ulcers, inflammation and general debility.
126. Thalictrum folilosum DC. Mameera, Ranunculaceae H Roots are used for dyspepsia, fever, indigestion, ulcers and hemorrhoids.
58
Int. J. Med. Arom. Plants Ethnomedicinal plants of Amarkantak region
Srivastava et al.
http://www.openaccessscience.com
ijmap@openaccessscience.com
Pili Jadi Leaf juice is applied on boils and pimples.
127. Trema orientalis (Linn.) Blume Jivaniti bhed Ulmaceae T Leaves and bark of its plant is very useful in cough, sore throats, asthma,
bronchitis, gonorrhoea, toothache and dysentery.
128. Tylophora rotundifolia Buch.-Ham.
ex Wight
Dambuti Asclepiadaceae C Root extract is used for chest pain, indigestion and insect bite.
129. Urginea indica (Roxb.) Kunth Van piyaj,
Banpalandu
Liliaceae H Bulb is used in cardiac problems, inflammation, and ulcers and oil extract of
the tuber is useful in sinus.
130. Vetiveria zizanioides (Linn.) Nash Khas Poaceae H Its root is useful in burning sensation, ulcer, skin disease, vomiting, nausea,
flatulence, dyspepsia, colic, cough, fever, back pain, headache and general
debility.
131. Vitis vinifera Linn. Angoor Vitaceae C Angoor is used in burning sensation, constipation, hemorrhoids, anemia, skin
disease, colic, jaundice, vomiting, arthritis and general weakness.
132. Zea mays Linn. Makai,
Makka
Poaceae H Decoction of the leaves and roots is used for the treatment of strangury, and
dysuria. Corn is used in diabetes, constipation, gout and gonorrhoea. A de-
coction of the corn is used in the treatment of nose bleeding. The seed is good
for ulcers, swellings and rheumatic pains.
133. Zingiber capitatum Roxb. Vach Kanda Zingiberaceae H It is very useful in stomachache, nausea, diarrhoea, cholera, bleeding piles,
asthma, heart problems and respiratory disorders.
134. Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. Jangali
Adrak,
Zingiberaceae H Rhizome is used to treat indigestion and inflammation.
135. Zingiber zerumbet (Linn.) Roscoe ex
Sm.
Narkachur Zingiberaceae H Rosted Rhizome used to treat indigestion, toothache, stomachache and
Cough. Rhizome juice used for diarrhoea and dysentery.
*Abbreviations used: H- Herb; S- Shrub T- Tree; C- Climber
Climber, 16, 12%
Climbing shrub, 1,
1%
Herb, 70, 52%
Shrub, 22, 16%
Tree, 26, 19%
Climber Climbing shrub Herb Shrub Tree
Figure 1: Habit pattern of different plant species.
Leaves, 35, 26%
Seeds, 7, 5%
Whole plant, 38,
29%
Bark, 20, 15%
Root, 29, 21%
Flowers, 2, 1%
Fruits, 4, 3%
Leaves Seeds Whole plant Bark Root Flowers Fruits
Figure 2: Plant parts used pattern of different
plant species.
Conclusion
The present study provides information on
ethnomedicinal uses of plant species in Amar-
kantak region. It is clear from the investigation
that the local people have great expertise with the
plants of their own environment. The occurrence
of a number of economically important species
has enhanced the conservation as well as socio-
economic values of the area particularly in view
of religious aspect of the area. Furthermore, the
over-exploitation of species for fuel, fodder,
medicine, wild edibles and house building may
lead to decline of these species from the area.
Conservation and cultivation of these plants spe-
cies will help to maintain the ecological balance,
tradional knowledge as well as livelihood securi-
ty of local inhabitants.
Acknowledgements: We are highly grateful to
Parma Pujya Swami Ramdev Ji and Acharya
Balkrishna Ji, Patanjali Yogpeeth, Haridwar for
providing necessary facilities and encourage-
ment.
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