A study on preserving indigenous healing: The role of tribal medicinal knowledge in biodiversity conservation and sustainable healthcare

Abstract

India's tribal communities possess a wealth of traditional medicinal knowledge, intricately linked to their cultural practices and local biodiversity. This ethnomedicinal heritage not only offers alternative healthcare solutions but also plays a pivotal role in conserving medicinal plant species and promoting sustainable healthcare practices. However, rapid modernization, deforestation, and the erosion of traditional lifestyles threaten the preservation of this invaluable knowledge. This qualitative secondary research delves into the significance of tribal medicinal knowledge in biodiversity conservation and sustainable healthcare. By analysing ethnobotanical surveys, government reports, and academic studies, the research highlights how indigenous practices contribute to the sustainable use of medicinal plants and the challenges faced in preserving this knowledge. The study underscores the need for collaborative frameworks that respect and integrate tribal knowledge into broader conservation and healthcare strategies. It advocates for policies that recognize the contributions of tribal communities, support the documentation of traditional practices, and ensure the sustainable harvesting of medicinal plants. By valuing and preserving tribal medicinal knowledge, we can foster biodiversity conservation and promote sustainable healthcare solutions that are culturally relevant and ecologically sound.