Medicinal plants of Taleran sacred groves from Junnar Tehsil of Maharashtra: An ethnobotanical perspective

Sacred groves are traditionally protected forests or forest patches housing a diverse range of flora, including valuable medicinal plants. They function as repositories of genetic diversity and play a vital role in forest and ecosystem conservation. The ethnomedicinal knowledge associated with plants in these groves presents significant potential in terms of natural resources and bio-prospecting. Most of the sacred groves contain medicinal, economic, and edible plant species. However, in recent times, these sacred groves or small forest patches have encountered various challenges such as grazing, encroachment, and shifting social attitudes. Consequently, there is an urgent need to conserve and protect the biodiversity of these sacred groves. The sacred groves found in Taleran village of Junnar Tehsil serve as natural conservation areas and harbor a diverse array of biological entities, particularly a rich diversity of ethnic medicinal plants. Local communities have been actively involved in conserving these groves through their beliefs and traditional practices, thereby possessing a wealth of knowledge about herbal folk medicine. During extensive field surveys throughout the Taleran sacred grove, we explored 81 plant species with ethnobotanical value. The information collected from various local communities residing in sacred grove-centered villages across the Tehsil includes traditional uses of medicinally important plants and plant parts used with their medicinal value. This information offers valuable insights into the rich traditional knowledge of herbal medicine among these communities. By documenting and understanding the traditional uses of these plants, we contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable healthcare practices for future generations.