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Ethnobotanical documentation and usage pattern of medicinal plants in the southern and southeastern foothills of Bhutan
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DOI：10.1016/j.hermed.2025.101080.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
Background: Bhutan, located in the Eastern Himalayas and known for its biological richness, has a longstanding tradition of medicinal practices. Despite > 600 known medicinal species (similar to 10% flora), documentation of local knowledge is incomplete, especially in the under-explored southern/southeastern foothills. Objectives: To systematically document medicinal plants and ethnobotanical knowledge in southern/southeastern Bhutan, analyse usage patterns (parts, preparation, administration, ailments), and compare with the literature. Methods: Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted in five districts using semistructured interviews with seven key informants, group discussions, and specimen collection. The Utility Value Index was applied to evaluate the relative importance of species based on reported uses. Results: A total of 278 medicinal plant species across 90 families were recorded, with over 80% confirmed through field observations. Dominant families included Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, and Fabaceae. Herbs (47.1%) were the most common growth form, with leaves and whole plants being the most frequently used parts. Decoctions (23.4%) and poultices (20.5%) were the primary preparation methods, administered orally, externally, or in combination. These remedies addressed common ailments such as fever, pain, diarrhoea, and wounds. Quantitative analysis showed high utility values for key species and distinct plant-ailment associations. Meta-analysis supported traditional uses with phytochemical evidence for selected genera. Conclusion: This research reveals significant, under-documented ethnobotanical diversity and local knowledge in southern/southeastern Bhutan, while acknowledging limitations requiring broader future sampling. It highlights deep local knowledge. Integrating this knowledge with scientific validation and conservation is essential for sustainable resource utilisation.
Keywords:
Biodiversity
Ethnobotany
Medicinal plants
Sowa Rigpa
Taxonomic identification
Traditional knowledge
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