Title: Knowledge and uses of ethnomedicinal plants: a study on tribal communities of Joypur forest, West Bengal (India)

Authors: Tanmoyee Bhattacharjee; Anirban Baitalik; Biplab Bera

Addresses: Yogoda Satsanga Palpara Mahavidyalaya (Palpara College), Palpara, Purba Medinipur – 721458, West Bengal, India; Fakir Mohan University, Balasore – 756019, Odisha, India ' Midnapore City College, Kuturiya, Bhadutala, Paschim Medinipur – 721129, West Bengal, India ' Midnapore City College, Kuturiya, Bhadutala, Paschim Medinipur – 721129, West Bengal, India

Abstract: This research delves into the ethnomedicinal expertise held by tribal communities residing in the Joypur forest region of West Bengal, India. The study's primary focus is to document and analyse the knowledge of 21 key plant species integral to their traditional healthcare systems. Notably, the Asteraceae, Acanthaceae, and Apocynaceae plant families are identified as prominent contributors, addressing a wide range of ailments. Innovative indices such as knowledge relevance index (KRI), usage value (UV), fidelity level (FL), and relative frequency of citation (RFC) evaluate the significance of each plant species in ethnomedicinal practices. The analysis reveals a positive correlation between age and traditional knowledge, underscoring the older generation's role as custodians of invaluable wisdom. Interestingly, waning interest in traditional remedies is noted among the youth, who prefer easily accessible allopathic treatments. This study provides insights into cultural dynamics and underscores the urgency of preserving ethnomedicinal wisdom.

Keywords: ethnomedicinal knowledge; plant species; traditional health practices; tribal community; West Bengal.

DOI: 10.1504/IJICBM.2025.146680

International Journal of Indian Culture and Business Management, 2025 Vol.35 No.2, pp.207 - 233

Received: 03 Jan 2023
Accepted: 21 Aug 2023
Published online: 13 Jun 2025 *

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