Ethnomedicinal plants used by major ethnic groups of Assam (India) for curing skin diseases

Abstract

An ethnobotanical survey was carried out to explore and document the traditional knowledge of various ethnic groups of Assam for treating skin diseases. The information regarding the uses of various medicinal plants in the treatment of skin diseases was gathered from village elders, traditional healers and Gaon Bura (village head man) through interviews. A total of 50 plants species belonging to 35 families were found useful and herewith described along with vernacular name, parts used and mode of administration. Several new findings on the traditional rural practices were reported. The present study revealed that the tribal people of Assam are primarily dependent on medicinal plants for treating skin diseases.