FOLK MEDICINAL PLANTS, THEIR UTILIZATION, AND CONSERVATION BY LOCAL COMMUNITIES IN BHINGA BLOCK, UTTAR PRADESH

Fever is a common ailment among rural and tribal communities and is frequently managed using traditional plant-based remedies. The present studies aimed to document and identify plant species used by local inhabitants in Bhinga Block of Shravasti district of Uttar Pradesh for the treatment of febrile conditions. Data were collected from 50 local healers and elderly informants through interviews and guided field walks. An ethnobotanical questionnaire was also administered. Plant specimens were collected, processed, and identified using standard floras and taxonomic literature. A total of 18 plant species belonging to 13 families were recorded for their antipyretic uses, with Fabaceae and Solanaceae being the most represented families. Leaves and roots were the most commonly utilized plant parts for the preparation of remedies. Indigenous communities employ a variety of medicinal plants for the treatment of several ailments, particularly malaria, dengue, typhoid, and fever. These medicinal plants represent a valuable source of traditional healthcare knowledge and may possess potential bioactive compounds for the treatment of various diseases. Preparation methods and modes of administration of herbal remedies vary among different localities within the study area.