Volume : 11, Issue : 2, FEB 2025

NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON “ROLE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY IN AGRICULTURE, CHEMICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT” (NCB-2025)

TRADITIONAL PHYTOTHERAPIES OF PTERIDOPHYTES USED BY INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES OF NORTH WESTERN HIMALAYAN REGION OF HIMACHAL PRADESH FOR FEMALE HEALTH PROBLEMS

NITESH KUMAR, RUCHIKA DEVI*, MAMTA SINGH PATHANIA*, RAJESH KUMAR, NEELAM KUMARI, ANU PRIYA SHARMA

Abstract

The indigenous communities of the North Western Himalayan region of Himachal Pradesh possess a rich ethnomedicinal heritage, utilizing diverse plant resources, including pteridophytes, to address female health problems. Pteridophytes, often overlooked in ethnobotanical studies, hold significant therapeutic potential due to their bioactive compounds. This study documents and analyses traditional phytotherapies involving pteridophytes for gynecological and reproductive health issues such as menstrual irregularities, leucorrhea, and postpartum recovery. Ethnobotanical data were collected through structured interviews, participatory observations, and field visits in collaboration with local healers and elder community members. A total of 16 species of pteridophytes belonging to 13 families were identified, with specific medicinal applications for female health. Preparation methods included decoctions, infusions, and poultices, often combined with other herbs to enhance efficacy. The most frequently used species included Adiantum venustum, Diplazium esculentum, and Dryopteris filix-mas. These plants show the presence of tannins, flavonoids, and saponins, compounds known for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and hormonal regulatory properties. However, the declining availability of pteridophytes due to habitat destruction and overharvesting threatens their continued use.

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