Ethnomedicinal plants of the Karbi ethnic group in Assam state (India) for management of gynaecological disorders

Abstract

The Karbis gives immense importance related to woman health including gynaecological disorders. Though man and woman have equal knowledge about medicinal plants and its usage, excepted knowledge of woman health pertaining to gynaecology are acquainted only by woman. Ethno-gynaecological practices of the Karbis and plant medicines used have not received the attention of researchers; so in this paper emphasized has been given on uses of plants, plants products and gender aspect of gynaecological knowledge. Karbi ethnic tribe and their ethnomedicines are materials for the present study. Field study was undertaken during the period of 2011-2014, following survey and unstructured methods. Twenty eight (28) medicinal plants are being used by the Karbis for various gynaecological problems. These plants are found in diverse habit and habitat and the local folk are competent enough to select and identify the useful medicinal plants for the purpose. The study suggests that herbal remedies constitute an important and effective component of the healthcare system among Karbis whose use needs to be encouraged and promoted. Further pharmacological investigation would aids in proving efficacy of the medicines and evidence for tribal claimed in efficiency of the ethnomedicines.