Exploring the use of native plants in healthcare of tribals in Odisha

Herbal healing has been in a long time before western medicine was introduced in these villages. Abundant indigenous plants found in nearby jungles provide valuable medicinal resources, filling the void left by the lack of healthcare facilities and hospitals. This study employs a mixed-method approach to explore how tribal communities of Sundargarh district utilize, believe in, and benefit from native plants. Data collection involved self-prepared questionnaires, group discussions, visits to local gunia and tribal elders, and direct exploration of the forest and its surroundings. The findings reveal a diverse array of wild plants with therapeutic properties, addressing various health concerns. For example, the common plant known as Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) yields oil from its seeds, and the waste product, locally known as