Floristic and medicinal plant diversity of South Sikkim: An assessment of therapeutic potential, conservation status, and economic potential

Abstract BACKGROUND: Sikkim, renowned for its diverse flora, harbors a wide array of plant species that contribute to its rich botanical heritage. Despite this, the flora and medicinal plant diversity of South Sikkim remains underexplored. This study aims to document the floral and medicinal plant diversity of South Sikkim, evaluate the conservation status using International union for conservation of nature (IUCN) criteria, validate therapeutic effects, and assess the trade value of the documented plants. METHODS: The Medico-Ethno-Botanical Survey (MEBS) team conducted an extensive survey across seven forest ranges in South Sikkim as per the questionnaire of the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy, New Delhi. Plant species were identified using regional floras, while the conservation status of the documented plants was assessed using the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Additionally, the therapeutic effects, and trade data were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 133 plant species belonging to 114 genera and 61 families were documented. Among all the forest ranges, the Bhanjyang range exhibited the highest species richness. The family Fabaceae was the most represented species, while the genera Begonia , Impatiens , and Sida exhibited the highest species diversity. Herbs constituted the dominant plant habit when compared to other plant habits. Ayurvedic validation revealed 35 species linked to traditional formulations. A total of 87 species were classified as not evaluated category as per IUCN evaluations, and 44 were identified with significant trade value among the documented plants. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the rich floristic and medicinal plant diversity of South Sikkim, with a focus on therapeutic effect, Ayurvedic formulations, conservation gaps, and economic potential. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable utilization of these resources by integrating traditional knowledge, conservation strategies, and trade opportunities to preserve the region’s botanical wealth while ensuring long-term ecological and economic benefits.