Ethnomedicinal studies on ferns and fern allies of Hadoti Plateau, southeastern Rajasthan

Abstract

Medicinal uses of eleven species of ferns and fern allies growing in Hadoti Plateau, southeastern Rajasthan are given. The area is geographically located from 75°15′ to 77°20′E and 23°47′ to 25°55′N. It is traversed by Mukundara Hill ranges, a branch of Vindhyan range and is drained by river Chambal and its right bank tributaries like Parban, Parvati and Kali Sindh. Apart from hills and mountains, this part of southeastern Rajasthan is covered with dense forests, vast agricultural fields and open grasslands. The tribals residing in this region include Sahariya, Bhil, Kanjar, Sansis, Gadia Lobar, Mogya etc. and they frequently utilize wild plants including ferns and fern allies for treatment of various diseases. The data provides material for safe, cheap, and effective remedies for some prevalent ailments in humans.