Ethnobotanical Studies of the Tarai Region of Kumaun, Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

An ethnobotanical study was conducted during 2008–2010 in the central tarai region of Kumaun (also known as Kumaon) Himalaya in Northern India to highlight the uses of the diverse flora. The study sites included Lalkuan in Nainital district and Kichha Tehsil (covering Pantnagar) of district Udham Singh Nagar, as these occupy the major part of central tarai and have undergone massive development and settlement of people of diverse culture. The entire study area consisted of three sites and eight communities. Interviews were conducted with knowledgeable persons in the study area. A total of 206 angiosperm species recorded in this study were found to be used for medicinal, economic (aromatic, timber, spices, fuel, condiments, cosmetics, etc.), fodder, firewood, timber, food, spiritual, or some other purpose. The information was collected both from migrant and local people.