Utilization Pattern of Animals and Plants in Traditional Medicines in Western Nepal

Non-indigenous species are being incorporated into traditional medicines around the world. However, there is paucity in recognition of their importance. The present work accounts an overview of the use of non-indigenous species of animals and plants in traditional medicines and the implications for conservation. Rapid field observations, snow ball sampling, participatory discussions and literature review were conducted to triangulate the information. Field visits were made in Manaslu Conservation Area of Gorkha district and two villages of Tanahun and Kaski districts each. As elsewhere, adoption of non-indigenous species was increasing, may be seen as a way to reshape and re-vitalize the traditional practices, which in many cases complement the ingredients for primary health care services. We found that the application of non-indigenous species was both human induced and natural or evolutionary phenomenon. Advertently, both the non-indigenous animals and plant species have been used as a substitution or to diversify the local medicinal stock. Increasing uses of non-indigenous species was also due to increasing health care demand, accessibility of non-indigenous resources at nearby areas and deterioration of indigenous knowledge and physical annihilation of indigenous groups and practices. In either cases, we need to be cautious when accepting the non-indigenous resources into traditional medical repertoire.

Keywords: Indigenous species, medicinal plants, Paa, Manaslu Conservation Area, Traditional medicine