WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

Roshani Sanjay Koli, Mohini Pitambar Nerkar, Vaishnavi Aakash More, Jagruti Suresh Mahajan, Divyani Jijabrao Patil, Shital Kailas Patil, Sumeet Pundlik Shelar, Sughosh V. Upasani*

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Medicinal plants have played a crucial role in human societies for centuries, especially in traditional healing systems. The Khandesh region of Maharashtra, India, boasts rich ethnobotanical diversity, with many plant species used by tribal and rural communities to treat various ailments. This study aims to document and analyse the medicinal plants in this area, helping to preserve traditional knowledge for future use. Methodology: An extensive ethnobotanical survey was carried out to identify and categorize medicinal plants in Jalgaon, Dhule, and Nandurbar districts. Multiple sources, including literature reviews and field studies, were used to record plant species, their botanical families, medicinal uses, and parts used. Data analysis involved statistical and graphical methods. Results: The study identified 192 medicinal plants across 73 plant families, with Euphorbiaceae (13 species) being the most common, followed by Caesalpiniaceae (11), Cucurbitaceae (8), and Acanthaceae (8). The primary medicinal uses included wound healing (13 species), jaundice (5), dysentery (5), and body pain (4). The most frequently used plant parts were whole plants (8 species), leaf decoctions (6), and fruits (5). Discussion: These findings highlight the vital role of indigenous knowledge in plant-based medicine. Combining traditional healing practices with modern scientific validation can improve the credibility and conservation of these plants for future medicinal use. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the ethnobotanical richness of Khandesh and the importance of conservation efforts to integrate traditional medicinal knowledge with modern healthcare systems.