An ethnobotanical study of Wild plants used by the Bodo community in the adjacent areas of Raimona National Park, Assam, India

The present study deals with the identification, documentation, and exploration of wild plants traditionally used by the Bodo tribes inhabiting Raimona national park, Assam, India. Ethnobotanical data were collected through structured interviews, field observations, and literature surveys to document botanical identity, local names, habits, and therapeutic uses of plants in the study area. A total of 33 wild medicinal plant species belonging to 25 families were recorded, with uses ranging from treatment of various diseases such as skin ailments, fever, diabetes, respiratory problems, wounds, and inflammation. Among the recorded families, Combretaceae and Lamiaceae were the most represented, each contributing 3 species (9%). Analysis of growth forms showed that herbs were the predominant life form, accounting for 41% of the species, followed by trees at 34%. Evaluation of their conservation status, based on IUCN Red list categories, indicated that 52% (17 species) are classified as Least Concern, whereas 48% (16 species) have not yet been assessed. Although many species are currently considered stable, their populations are gradually declining due to anthropogenic pressures such as habitat destruction, overharvesting, and lack of awareness regarding forest ecosystem conservation. The study provides a comprehensive account of the ethnobotanical knowledge of wild plant species used by the Bodo community in Raimona national park, residing around Raimona National Park and its adjacent forest areas. As a result, establishes a valuable baseline dataset for ethnobotanical data, future ecological monitoring, conservation planning, and sustainable utilization of wild plants resources in the park.