Assessing ethnomedicinal values and conservation status of Korai, Berberis vulgaris L (Berberidaceae) – A potential biopesticide in Usheri valley, Dir. Upper, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

Speen Korai Berberis vulgaris L. (Berberidaceae) is one of the important medicinal and aromatic plant found in hilly areas of District Upper Dir. The aim of this study was to assess the ethnomedicinal value and conservation status of B. vulgaris in Usheri valley, upper Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Questionnaires were developed for the purpose and data was collected from experienced old age residents. The analysis showed that majority (25%) of the people was using B. vulgaris for treatment of bone fractures followed by 15%, 15%, 7%, 6%, 5% and 3% for stomachic disease and wound healing, Jaundice, sour of mouth, Kidney stone, and intestinal diseases respectively. Use of B. vulgaris has also been reported for liver/spleen (1.5%), foot athletic (1%) and reducing sweet smell (0.5%). Furthermore, B. vulgaris has also been used for other traditional purposes (4%). The data obtained from farmers showed that (50%) respondents turned Berberis species, mainly responsible for the low yield of Wheat crop, while (40%) respondents claimed that flying insects supplement are responsible for the dispersal of wheat pathogens and ultimately maximizing the pathogen outbreak. It was concluded that traditional uses, serving as host for the pathogens, human population increase, uncontrolled grazing and agricultural land urbanization are the key factors responsible for the species vulnerability.