Medicinal Plant Diversity and Conservation in Dhule, Western Maharashtra: A Review

Western Maharashtra’s Dhule district is a hotspot for traditional medicinal plant use among tribal communities. This review synthesizes ethnobotanical surveys and phytochemical research, documenting 50+ plant species across ~32 families used to treat ailments like wounds, fevers, and diabetes. Key findings indicate predominant usage of Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Lamiaceae plants and widespread fresh-plant remedies in Satpuda tribal practice. Phytochemical analyses from Dhule and adjacent regions highlight antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory compounds in plants like Calotropis gigantea (hypoglycemic activity). Threats such as habitat degradation, shifting pharmacopoeias, and erosion of oral knowledge are emerging. This paper compiles traditional knowledge, phytochemical data, and conservation status to guide future pharmacological and biodiversity efforts in Dhule.