Ethnobotanical documentation of medicinal plant resources in Assam, Northeast India

Abstract

Assam, a northeastern state of India, is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and the deep-rooted traditions of indigenous communities who have long relied on medicinal plants for primary healthcare. This review synthesizes ethnobotanical knowledge of medicinal plants documented across the region, highlighting their therapeutic properties, preparation methods, and cultural relevance. A total of 149 plant species belonging to 64 families were identified, reflecting remarkable taxonomic diversity and the richness of traditional medical practices. Prominent families such as Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, and Malvaceae dominate the inventory, consistent with global ethnobotanical trends due to their wide distribution and abundance of bioactive compounds. The study reveals that leaves are the most frequently utilized plant part, indicating a relatively sustainable approach to harvesting. However, reliance on roots, bark, and whole plants—particularly from species categorized as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered—raises serious conservation concerns. The documented species address a wide spectrum of ailments, including inflammation, infections, metabolic disorders, and wound healing, underscoring their pharmacological potential. The recurrence of similar therapeutic uses across unrelated taxa suggests long-term empirical validation through traditional practice and highlights the need for phytochemical and pharmacological studies to scientifically substantiate these claims. Furthermore, the integration of medicinal plants into daily diets, such as tea (Camellia sinensis var. assamica), papaya (Carica papaya), and curry leaves (Murraya koenigii), reflects the holistic nature of traditional medicine, where nutrition and prevention are closely linked. This review emphasizes the importance of preserving ethnomedicinal knowledge while promoting sustainable harvesting and conservation strategies to safeguard biodiversity and support the development of plant-based therapeutics.