TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL PLANTS OF THE SHEKHAWATI REGION, RAJASTHAN: DIVERSITY, INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE, AND PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE
AUTHOR
Anju Ojha
ABSTRACT
Arid and semi-arid regions are often perceived as biologically impoverished; however, they harbor a distinctive assemblage of plant species that exhibit remarkable ecological resilience and medicinal value. The Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, situated on the northeastern fringe of the Thar Desert, supports a rich diversity of medicinal plants that have been integral to indigenous healthcare systems for centuries. These plant resources form the foundation of traditional medical practices, particularly in rural communities where access to modern healthcare remains limited. The present study documents and analyses the medicinal plant diversity of the Shekhawati region with a focus on traditional ethnobotanical knowledge, therapeutic applications, and potential pharmacological significance. Using a mixed- method approach, primary data were collected through systematic field surveys, semi-structured interviews with traditional healers (vaidya, hakims), elderly community members, and local herbal practitioners, supplemented by extensive literature review. The study records key medicinal species, plant parts used, preparation methods, and ailments treated, highlighting their role in the management of common conditions such as digestive disorders, respiratory ailments, skin diseases, fever, diabetes, and inflammatory conditions.
