Documentation of traditional healing practices used by tribal healers of Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh

Introduction: This study documents the traditional healing practices of tribal healers in Mandla district, Madhya Pradesh, highlighting their rich ethnomedicinal knowledge, the use of local herbs in addressing common ailments, thereby preserving indigenous wisdom for healthcare and research purposes. Aim: This study is aimed to document the traditional healing practices used by Traditional Tribal Healers (TTH) in the Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh. Materials and Methods: Field trips were conducted in different Talukas and villages of the district Mandla. Field investigators collected plant samples and interviewed the TTH. The received information was recorded and documented. The herbarium sheets of unknown plants were prepared and sent for authentication to different centers. Results: A total of 68 plants from 45 families are being utilized in the treatment of a wide range of ailments such as itching, cracks in palms or soles, cold hands and feet, wounds, edema, obesity, diabetes, bloating, diarrhea, dysentery, abdominal pain, typhoid, arthritis, rheumatism, gout, cold and cough, asthma, heart disease, hypertension, burning micturition, frequent urination, and cancer. As for the plant part being used, leaves are used chiefly followed by fruit, seeds, root, stem, bark, rhizome, flower, latex, and whole plant. The internal administration was given either as a single drug or mixed with water, milk, curd, honey, ghee, or oil; whereas local application of the paste of some plant parts was employed for external administration. Conclusion: The study revealed different healing practices that are practiced by the tribal healers of the Mandla district. The study explores the uses of many extrapharmacopoeial and unidentified plants. It will be helpful in exploring additional therapeutic uses and in identifying various plants that are being used in tribal practice.