Ethnobotanical Survey Of Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve Of Mungeli District

Abstract

The ethnobotanical study of Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve of Mungeli District is considered a base of sustainable life in the surroundings. This reserve area is vital to maintain ecological balance and reduce the harmful impact of climate change. In the present research, we have selected the lush green forest area of Khudia, and Lormi Region under Mungeli District. The Gond, Baigas, Kol, Kanwar, and Oraon tribes are native to biosphere reserves and rely on this forest region's natural resources for their livelihood and food security. The research presented in this paper thrives on comprehensive study and documentation of non-wood forest products and medicinal plants in this region. We have documented 38 medicinal plants and 49 NWFP that serve the native tribal population for their livelihood and food security. We have also noticed that various activities like human-animal conflict, habitat destruction, and natural calamities are crucial factors in damaging the floral diversity of the Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve of Mungeli District. Henceforth the outcome of the present study enforces the development of conservation practices for Non-Wood Forest Products and medicinal plants to ensure the livelihood and food security of native tribes.