Ethnobotanical insights into rheumatoid arthritis management: indigenous herbal practices from Kutch, Gujarat, India

BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by systemic inflammation and progressive joint degeneration. This survey was conducted to address a knowledge gap regarding the ethnomedicinal practices of indigenous communities in Kutch, Gujarat, specifically for the management of RA. Although RA is a globally prevalent condition, documentation of locally used medicinal plants and their preparation methods remains limited, particularly in arid regions where access to modern healthcare is restricted. Systematic documentation of this knowledge allows for the assessment of cultural consensus on plant use and the identification of species with therapeutic potential, which may guide future pharmacological research and integrative treatment strategies. The present study aimed to systematically document and analyse the ethnomedicinal knowledge of plants used for RA among indigenous communities in Kutch, Gujarat, and to quantitatively evaluate their ethnobotanical significance, cultural consensus, and usage patterns using Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Use Value (UV), and Fidelity Level (FL). METHODS: An ethnobotanical study was conducted in the Kutch district of Gujarat between December 2022 and December 2023, employing a cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 162 participants, including 86 key informants recognized for their traditional knowledge of plant-based therapies for RA. Information was documented on plant species used, specific parts utilized, preparation methods, and routes of administration. Quantitative indices including Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Use Value (UV) and Fidelity Level (FL)were calculated to assess ethnobotanical significance and cultural consensus. RESULTS: A total of 155 plant species were reported for the management of RA. The most frequently represented families were Fabaceae, Malvaceae, and Convolvulaceae. Whole plants (50.7%) and leaves (38.2%) were the most commonly used parts. Predominant preparation methods were decoction (Kwatha, 62.5%) and paste (Kalka, 40.97%). High ICF and FL values indicate strong cultural consensus and specificity of use among several species. DISCUSSION: This study underscores the rich ethnobotanical heritage of the Kutch region, particularly in relation to traditional plant-based therapies for RA. The documented knowledge reflects a culturally embedded, experience-based system with significant potential for developing integrative or complementary therapeutic strategies. However, comprehensive pharmacological, phytochemical, and toxicological evaluations are necessary to scientifically validate these traditional claims. Future interdisciplinary research may facilitate the translation of this indigenous knowledge into evidence-based applications in modern rheumatology.