ETHNO-BOTANICAL EXPLORATION OF PLANT SPECIES USED IN DISTRICT MANDI, HIMACHAL PRADESH (INDIA)

Abstract

A total of 167 species from 140 genera and 55 families were used by the inhabitants for various purposes. These include agriculture crops, cosmetics, dye, fencing, fibers, fuel, medicines, repellant, spices, timber, vegetables etc. The members of family Fabaceae has contributed the most followed by Poaceae, Rosaceae, Apiaceae, Lamiaceae etc. to meet the day to day requirements. Herbaceous species were most commonly used (38.92%) than trees (31.13%), shrubs (23.95%), climbers (5.38%) and lianas (0.59%). Majority of the plant species (94) were growing in their wild habitats. Maximum species (48) were cultivated as cereals followed by (28) timber, (25) condiments, (18) for grain protection, (17) for dyes etc.