Ethnobotanical and ritualistic plant usage in the Jajpur District, Odisha: A cultural and medicinal prospective

Jajpur district, also known as Biraja Kshetra, is renowned for its cultural heritage and rich ethnobotanical traditions. This study documents 47 plant species from 42 genera and 28 families that are used in both ritualistic and medicinal practices in the region. Ethnobotanical data were collected through field surveys and semi-structured interviews with local people, priests, and traditional healers (vaidyas). Trees were the most common plant habit (46.80%), followed by herbs, shrubs, and climbers. Poaceae was the dominant family, followed by Fabaceae and Moraceae. Frequently used plant parts include leaves, with special emphasis on traditional preparations like Triphala, Pancha Sashya, and Pancha Pallab. Medicinal uses include treatment for skin diseases, wounds, gastrointestinal issues, diabetes, and veterinary ailments, primarily through oral and topical applications. Plants also hold ritual importance in ceremonies such as havans, marriages, housewarmings, and temple rituals. The study highlights the need to preserve ethnobotanical knowledge as a means of sustaining cultural identity and exploring potential therapeutic resources.