Preserving threatened ethnomedicinal knowledge: Revealing some less-explored therapeutic potential of wild indigenous flora of Koraput district, Odisha, India

Koraput district in Odisha, India, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and traditional medicinal practices. This region, characterized by its hilly terrain and tribal population, harbours a vast array of medicinal plants that have been traditionally used for generations to treat various ailments. This study aims to document and analyse the medicinal plants of Koraput, highlighting their significance in local healthcare practices and their potential for broader pharmaceutical applications. Field surveys and ethnobotanical studies were conducted to collect data on the medicinal plants used by the indigenous communities. Interviews with local healers and practitioners provided insights into the traditional knowledge and usage patterns of these plants. A total of 58 medicinal plant species belonging to 36 families were recorded. These plants are used to treat a variety of ailments, ranging from common colds to chronic diseases. Notably, many species such as Acacia sinuata, Asparagus racemosus, Dysphania ambrosioides and Ricinus communis are integral to both medicinal and cultural practices, revealing a holistic approach to health among these communities. Methods of preparation include decoctions, pastes, juices and powders, often administered orally or topically. The study underscores the critical role of traditional knowledge in healthcare among the tribal populations of Koraput. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific research, there is potential to discover novel drugs and therapies, contributing to sustainable healthcare solutions and the preservation of cultural heritage.