STUDY OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL PLANTS USED TO TREAT VARIOUS AILMENTS IN LAKSAR BLOCK HARIDWAR, UTTARAKHAND, INDIA

Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India has been the reservoir of enormous natural resources including vegetational wealth. A lot of work is ongoing in the field of exploring the medicinal values of plants in various regions of Uttarakhand, but Laksar block is relatively unexplored despite its rich flora worth extensive value if further explored or worked upon. So this research is specifically pertaining to attempt for extracting the medicinal benefits of plants and preserving this knowledge for future generations. This research study explores the traditional plant knowledge among local communities in Laksar block. The objective was to document the indigenous use of plants for treating various ailments. Information was gathered through open interviews with local residents, revealing that these communities continue to rely on their ancestral knowledge for healthcare. A total of 61 medicinal plant species were identified. Key details such as local names, families, useful parts, and medicinal significance were recorded. These plants are employed in the treatment of diverse ailments, including gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory issues, skin diseases, urinary complications, fever, gynecological conditions, muscular problems, and wounds. The study underscores the need for preserving this valuable knowledge to advance modern healthcare and support conservation efforts.