TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL PLANT RESOURCES FROM MAVAL TALUKA, DISTRICT PUNE, MAHARASTRA, INDIA

Abstract

The importance of medicinal plants in traditional health care practices has been emphasized at the global level by world health organization. Plants have been used since old days as a traditional, valuable, cheap, local source of medicine in all parts of the world2. The traditional knowledge of medicinal plants of a particular region for curing various diseases/ailments has been the practice all over India since long time. The world health organization, has reported that 80% of the world population relies on traditional medicines as first aid treatment for various health problems3. WHO has recommended the use of alternative traditional health care systems as first aid for treating various health problems? In recent years use of plant based medicines is on rise due to various advantages. In view of the above information the present study aims to gather information on traditional medicinal Plant resources from Maval Taluka, District Pune, used for treating various diseases/ailments as a first aid treatment in the region. Accordingly a Manual Random survey was undertaken. A questionnaire was prepared & interviews were undertaken to fill up the questionnaire. Approximately 515 persons were interviewed. The study helped in documentation, creating awareness & application of the knowledge of medicinal plants used in the region, amongst wider section of the people residing in the area.