Herbal Plants Used by the Deori Tribe of Assam: An Ethnobotanical Study

Abstract

The Deori tribe of Assam, a prominent indigenous community, possesses a rich heritage of ethnobotanical knowledge passed down through generations. This study investigates the diverse herbal plants utilized by the tribe for medicinal, dietary, and cultural purposes, identifying key species and their traditional applications. The findings emphasize the critical role of this knowledge in promoting sustainable healthcare and biodiversity conservation. However, the practices face significant threats from modernization, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation, risking the erosion of this cultural legacy. The paper underscores the urgency of preserving this heritage through community-based initiatives, sustainable harvesting practices, and integration with modern conservation and healthcare frameworks. By documenting and analyzing the Deori tribe’s traditional practices, the study highlights their potential contributions to global medicinal research and ecological sustainability.